altered book art by Virginia Beach artist, Maggie Kerrigan

A commission from 2015.  Solved a mom’s problem for a gift for her daughter.

Isn’t it easier to solve someone else’s problem?

Another artist and I were groaning about writing an artist’s statement for an upcoming show. We both agreed that it would be easier to write each other’s  than to write our own. I actually do believe I could whip one out for Lynne quicker than I could write one for myself.

Have you experienced anything like this?

If a friend is going through a problem, you can see all kinds of solutions. But if the exact same thing were on your own plate, you’d be stuck.

Why is it easier to solve other people’s problems?

Having done absolutely no research on this, I’m guessing it has to do with accountability. If you trouble-shoot for a friend, well, if it doesn’t work, it’s not all on you. After all, you were only trying to help. But when it’s your own problem/situation, there is a lot riding on whether or not you succeed.

There is something freeing about not having to take the heat for the outcome.

The next time you have your own problem to solve, and you are feeling STUCK, try this little trick. Pretend that you are helping a friend solve that very same problem. Project all of the issues onto the other person–write your problem into her life.  Then come up with some advice for your friend.  What would you suggest that your friend do?

Right now, take a few minutes and go through this exercise. Take a problem you currently have, but imagine it’s your friend’s situation. Write out a full solution for “your friend.” Then after you are done, substitute your own name back in for hers. (Then take your own advice.)

What do you think?  Can this work?  Does it work?

Tell us how it worked for you…