Vincent van Gogh left behind not only a legacy of vibrant paintings, but also a fascinating glimpse into his life, thoughts, and artistic journey, captured in over 2,000 letters during his lifetime. Most of these letters were addressed to his brother, Theo.
In one particular letter written in 1884, he offers a poignant reflection on the creative process and the fear that often accompanies it, resonating far beyond the realm of art?:
“You don’t know how paralyzing it is, that stare from a blank canvas that says to the painter, ‘you can’t do anything.’ The canvas has an idiotic stare and mesmerizes some painters so much that they turn into idiots themselves. Many painters are afraid of the blank canvas, but the blank canvas is afraid of the truly passionate painter who dares — and who has once broken the spell of ‘you can’t.’”
The blank canvas of decision-making can be equally daunting. Fear whispers, “What if you fail? What if your choice harms others?” Yet, it is precisely where we fear to tread that the true gift lies. The passionate decision-maker breaks the spell of “you can’t” by stepping into the unknown, risking failure, and in doing so, creating something meaningful.
Van Gogh’s words echo through time, offering guidance to those navigating the intricate landscape of decision-making. Just as a painter faces a blank canvas, decision-makers often face uncertain situations that can seem paralyzing. The fear of making a mistake, or ‘decidophobia,’ can affect people, even when it comes to the smallest choices. This fear can lead to blurred thinking, a lack of clarity, and increased dependence on others.
Fear-based decision-making can stop us from taking action and keep us stuck in an endless cycle of paralysis by analysis. However, Van Gogh’s words remind us that we can break the spell of ‘you can’t.’
Fear is something everyone experiences and is nothing to be ashamed of. Instead, we should use emotional agility to label our feelings and act on our values. By focusing on perfecting our processes rather than outcomes, we can broaden our thinking and feel more confident in the choices we make.
Lessons for Decision Makers
- Harness the Blank Canvas: Recognize that facing a new challenge or decision can feel daunting, but it’s an opportunity to create something new and meaningful. Like brushstrokes on a canvas, decisions need not be flawless. Accept that mistakes are part of the process.
- Break the “You Can’t” Spell: Reframe your mindset to see obstacles as challenges to be overcome, rather than insurmountable barriers.
- Take Action: Don’t let fear paralyze you; instead, use it as a catalyst for growth and change. Take calculated risks that propel progress. Understand the stakes, weigh the consequences, and take bold steps toward worthwhile results. Dare to question norms, explore uncharted territory, and disrupt the ordinary.
When faced with a blank canvas, how do you break the spell of “you can’t”?
