When we find ourselves rushing out the front door and we ask someone close to us what they think of what we’re wearing, are we asking for their reassurance or their contribution?

The same question applies to art and projects.

The preceding hours before we’re set to release something doesn’t allow much scope for the making of improvements. So, if we suddenly start asking people around us what they think of it, perhaps what we’re really after is reassurance, rather than a genuine contribution in service of improvement.

It’s worth knowing the difference, so that we can gauge if it’s actually worth asking. After all, receiving a contribution instead of reassurance at the final hour can be the opposite of reassuring.

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The Thoughts of Others

• “The purpose of art is not a momentary ejection of adrenaline, but rather the lifelong construction of a state of wonder and serenity.” – Glenn Gould