As the Winter Solstice wraps us in its quiet magic, I’ve been reflecting on the rhythm of life and the creative process. The Solstice is a perfect moment to pause, to ask big questions, and to plant seeds for the year ahead.
Let’s start with a deceptively simple one:
Who am I?
Or, if you’re feeling more adventurous: Who am I becoming?
This isn’t just a philosophical icebreaker; it’s the foundation of everything we do as creatives. Your BE-ing—who you are and who you’re growing into—is the birthplace of all your art, stories, and magic.
But here’s the kicker: most of us were trained to approach life, education, and creativity in a non-organic way our life.
The Conformist Mantra
In school, at work, in society, we were taught:
- If I HAVE the right tools, the right connections, or a million bucks…
- Only then can I DO what I want to do (write that script, paint that masterpiece, live my dream)…
- Only then will I BE happy, fulfilled, or successful.
Does this sound familiar? It’s a carrot-on-a-stick promise that keeps us chasing but never arriving. It’s excellent for systems built on empty hope but terrible for artists, storytellers, and anyone looking to live an authentic life.
The Creative Trinity: BE. DO. HAVE.
Here’s the flip:
- BE: Start with who you are and who you’re becoming.
- What’s your state of being? Grounded? Curious? Inspired? This is where your creative power lies. The more you embody your truth, the more magnetic you become. Be open, deeply allowing, and very present!
- DO: From that state of being, take action. Allow the doing to flow from your intentions, not distractions. DIS-traction pulls you off course; ATT-traction aligns you with your purpose. Put your time and attention where it matters most.
- HAVE: When you’re in alignment—being and doing—you’ll naturally have what you need. Maybe not a million bucks overnight, but the right opportunities, connections, and next steps will be co-created in the moment with impeccable timing.
This Solstice, Flip the Script
The Winter Solstice is the longest night of the year—a moment to honor the darkness and welcome the light’s return. It’s the perfect time to recalibrate:
- Who am I?
- What do I truly want?
- What’s calling to me, pulling me forward with its quiet resonance?
BE that person. DO the things that align with that being. And watch what you HAVE come into focus.
From all of us at Townshend Studios, here’s to a season of reflection, alignment, and full creative expression.
Happy Solstice, Merry Christmas, and a Joyous New Year!
With love and creative fire,
Joshua Townshend
