I’m working my way through some brain retraining exercises to help relieve chronic pain using an app called Curable. (Many thanks to my friend, Susan Carter Morgan, for sharing this valuable resource). One of the exercises is called Word Swap and it involves changing the words I use to describe my pain. Whenever you say (or think) a word, it paints a mental image in your brain. So if you describe pain as burning or stabbing, this lights up the brain’s fear patterns and may increase pain. Changing the words I use to describe my pain and how I’m feeling can change the level of pain I experience.
In a similar fashion, Paul Sanders describes how our thoughts and biases can limit our photography. In his newsletter today, Paul shares his perspective . . . .
I'm not a golden hour photographer, to be honest it doesn't do much for me, I like dull days, misty mornings, rain or fog, hard contrasty mid day sunshine - but in every part of the day I choose to photograph I embrace the light I am given.
Accepting the light you are given and looking for the unique qualities it offers will make you a better photographer, it will also make you a better human being - really! It will make you appreciate what you have rather than what you wish for - how many times have you wished for the lottery win? How many times have you won big? How many times have you had to make do with the money in your pocket?
Also by not being or feeling disappointed in the light you will be happier, less despondent too.
Of course now when you go out and think oh the light is rubbish you will hear my little voice in your ear saying "it's different not good or bad" sorry!
Changing the words we use to describe light and the subjects in our environment can make all the difference between creative self-expression and self-sabotage, doubt, and judgement.