August Preview: The Messy Middle

Inspired by that chaotic part of the process where creativity comes to life. Here’s what’s coming up in this month’s issue.

Welcome (or welcome back!) to Multifaceted, a weekly newsletter about finding delight and direction in a creative life made up of many different interests.

When you dive into a new passion project, you’re fueled on by a rush of excitement. 

When you finish it, you’ll feel that chapter closing. Hopefully with a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction, but, at the bare minimum, a readiness to set it aside and move on.

But in between, there’s a space where things get a little weird. It’s called the “messy middle.” 

This stage is where the magic happens. But it’s also where things can feel foggy. 

You might stop and start or give it your all, but nothing makes sense. One minute you love what’s happening – the next, you’re questioning everything.

You either feel like you’re not getting anywhere, or you’re careening toward some unknown destination that’s nowhere near where you thought you were going. 

But if you can stick through the tough part, it’ll be worth it – because this is where you grow. 

The “messy middle” is a place for experimentation and risk-taking. It’s your chance to make a glorious mess that sparks something unexpected. It’s where your creativity comes to life. 

In the end, you’ll see your work take shape into something even better than what you could’ve imagined at the start.

Throughout the rest of August, I’ll be reflecting on these ideas, and sharing glimpses into my own “messy middle.” Here’s what’s coming up in this month’s issue:

• Guest Post | I did a Q&A for another creativity-centric newsletter, and it made me rethink some stuff (this week)

• Creative Compass | Multifaceted folks, let’s debunk some misconceptions about creative consistency (week 2)

• Creative Living | The “messy middle” is blowing my mind! Time to share what’s new in my creative world (week 3)

Until then,

- Jess