Relational Skills for Artists
Relational skills often go undeveloped in artists because we focus so much on our art we neglect everything else. The problem with that is you can be the greatest artist in the world, but if you are a jerk, no one will want to work with you! Artist need to be able to initiate meaningful conversation. Meaningful conversation goes beyond, 'how bout this weather?' and into things like 'are you happy?' Taking relationships beyond surface level is key. We also need to listen attentively. As an artist and a guy, this one is sometimes hard for me. Listening means more than just sitting there facing in the other person's direction. Don't let your mind wander to other things! James tells us to be quick to listen and slow to speak, not the other way around. Artists have the potential to be great listeners. So much of our art draws on emotion, we can often perceive exactly what emotions others are trying to express.
Artists need to develop the skill of blessing others verbally. How ironic is it that artists, who are sensitive by nature, can be some of the most insensitive people in the world!? Sensitivity is no good if it is always directed inward, then it is nothing more than selfishness! When giving affirmation to others, be as specific as possible. 'Good job,' just doesn't cut it. Another thing we need to do is listen to how we come across. There are things that need to be said, and there are ways that they need to be said. Our minister (Mike McGinnis) puts in nicely when he says, 'I could say to my wife, 'Jennie, your face makes time stand still.' or I could say, 'Jennie, your face could stop a clock!' They are the same, yet will get very different reactions! We see the same thing in the Old Testament when Joseph is trying to tell his brothers about a dream he had. He told them about a dream in which everyone else's sheaf of grain bowed to his. His brother's quickly caught on to the fact that he was saying he would rule over all of them. They resented him so much they sold him into slavery! Be careful with your words. Proverbs 12:18 says, 'Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.'
Follow through with your responsibilities! I don't know why, but sometimes artists get the idea that because they are artists, they are excused from acting like responsible adults. If you are an artist (or if you are not), BE ON TIME! Artists are notorious for being late. And to put it bluntly, it is inconsiderate and rude. The message is that your time is more important than everyone else's. If you are forgetful, write things down, its just not that hard! Artists are also known for being bad with money. If you don't take care of your family, the scripture says you have denied the faith and are worse than an unbeliever! Get your finances in line and stop being irresponsible! Stay away from debt. Money is also the number one cause of divorce in North America. So artists, if you want a happy marriage, you better get your act together! Money won't make a happy marriage, but doing things God's way will, and He says you need to be able to take care of your family.
Enjoy the Journey
