In symbol-drama work, you draw the experience you lived through. Many people complain that they “can’t draw,” and because of that they don’t want to try. I understand them well.
The gap feels too big between what you long to bring to life and what actually appears on the paper. Inside, we believe that accuracy, completeness, and beauty matter.
Luckily, that’s not true — the symbolism is of utmost importance.
A symbol is an image with a metaphorical meaning that unites form and content, says Wikipedia. Unlike a sign, a symbol does not point directly to the object it represents.
Because every symbol is abstract, people react to it differently, depending on what they have lived through before. Sometimes they see much more in a drawing than you expected.
Draw a horse like a child or like Velázquez — people will still recognize it and will tell you what resonates in them. If needed, they will “finish” your picture on their own. For one it will be a workhorse, for another — a mustang, and for a third — a chess knight.
And your own attitude toward the drawing will also change. For example, in the moment of creating it, the imperfect tree or the roughly painted door irritates me. A day later, I nod: "Came out right."
My mind silently completes the tree and finishes painting the door.
What if the same thing happens in other parts of life? At least when it comes to starting something. Neatness and perfection are secondary — precious is the very Act, and the kick from it.
Yours sincerely,
-Alexander
As a business therapist, I help tech founders quickly solve dilemmas at the intersection of business and personality, and boost company value as a result.
Stuck? Your business grows when you do. I’m your business therapist to guide your shift. See testimonials here. Ready? Book your Catalyst session.