Can you use up all of your ideas?

I used to think I needed to save and hoard ideas, because what if after I finished them, I ran out? What if I had nothing more to say?

But then one day I had a thought.

What if we acted on them?

Every idea, I did my very best to capture it with the best of my ability as soon as possible? Or, write it down and (actually) do it as soon as my time and energy allowed?

What I found was once I explored a possibility, a new one took its place. I found each painting ended in a question mark instead of a period. Sometimes, a string of paintings became a cohesive idea that felt done. But even then, a new idea would creep its way in and present more possibility. Just when I think I have nothing more to say about a tree, I notice fifteen more things, or I discover a new medium that says something different.

That being said, I also have noticed that creativity happens in a cycle. There are periods of rest. There are times when nothing comes to mind and you just need time. That is okay. Take rest, but also don’t be afraid to start again.

I think this is incredible. It’s not a destination, it’s a journey. If you are an aspiring artist, all it takes is starting. If you have no desire to paint, I can see this idea play out in any area of passion. Have you ever tried to use up your ideas? Where did it lead you?