What if Godzilla Just Wanted a Hug?
I picked up What if Godzilla Just Wanted a Hug? Leading with the Heart Instead of the Chin by Darrell Fusaro because I expected to read a book that would paint a more optimistic picture of creativity and life in general. That kind of fresh perspective was just what I needed right now as I began to embrace a more creative life. This, plus a reminder that living life according to one's ideas and values is what really matters.
And I wasn’t disappointed. Darrell, an artist, speaker, author, and podcaster, among other roles, shares numerous stories from his life and life lessons, which I believe is why the book is so effective in getting the message across. In fact, there are many messages that I will remember for a long time:
It pays off to say “yes” more frequently and trust serendipity. It could lead to opportunities that you never imagined for yourself. Taking a more optimistic outlook on life also involves asking yourself "Why is this occurring FOR me?", rather than "Why is this happening to me?"
When engaging with new people or audiences, we all have initial reservations and preconceptions that rarely prove to be correct. Focusing on our similarities, rather than differences, is the best approach to connecting with one another in an authentic way.
Take it easy on yourself and remember the saying: slow is smooth and smooth is fast. We tend to overcomplicate life and put unnecessary pressure on ourselves. There is a better way of doing things:
“Everyday when I felt like giving up because the goal seemed too enormous for where I was at the time, I would remind myself of this simple truth, <<Inch by inch, life’s a cinch.>> It calmed me down, relieved me of self-imposed pressure and allowed me to focus on what I was doing at that moment. Rather than getting caught up in thoughts of where I thought I should be by this stage in my life and the overwhelming tasks I needed to do to get there, I began to just enjoy finishing each assignment, one by one, inch by inch.”
Listen to your intuition. Think of how fantastic you'll feel once you've followed through on your creative ideas instead of talking yourself out of them.
Embrace being a beginner. We all like to compare ourselves to those we admire, forgetting that they were once novices as well:
“So, if you are starting on a new adventure toward your heart’s desire, be inspired that those you look up to were once just as insecure and inexperienced as you. Remind yourself that anything worth doing is worth doing badly and before you know it you’ll be a hero motivating others with your lousy start too.”
As I look at this book, it also reminds me to live with more humor and self-distance. And that living a more courageous and honest life doesn't require lofty words or actions. It can be as simple as telling the truth or admitting my vulnerability.
