I Am A Genius-- Deal With It

When you call or refer to someone a genius, what do you really mean? That they manifest qualities and characteristics which seem to be beyond the typical? That they are totally extraordinary and they are ahead of their time? That they seem to be able to master and generate the perfect and ideal obra maestra with so little or no effort at all? This is actually a 3-stage process. First and foremost, you have to break down all your preconceived notions and misconceptions regarding what you think being a real genius is. As they say, Albert Einstein was a genius. So were William Shakespeare, Vincent Van Gogh, Beethoven and Leaonardo da Vinci. And why is that—because they have shown a distinct and unique way of thinking which separated them from the ordinary and the conventional. So, did genius simply bequeath itself upon these exceptional persons? No way—each so-called genius is first and foremost, a craftsman. They study, they also copy and innovate, they learn the basics till they become inherent. So that, when the time comes to create and invent for themselves, they understand and know their core influences. No influence is a bad or wrong influence—everything helps. Good and prolific artists express themselves and their art with talent and sincerity. They also learn and educate themselves—and continue learning from their fellow artists. What really highlights and sets you apart as a “genius” is your openness and willingness to get real with yourself and to your craft. In short, genius is truly about having the boldness—the raw courage and boldness to be your own self. Genius is not a thing in itself—rather, it’s a qualitative judgment or assessment made by critics and persons—generally after the artist is already dead! Some practical advice and tips now, on stage 2: first, try to not to think about anything. No emotions, influences or unnecessary distractions. Clear your mind, try looking for that inner calm with the essence of pure, unadulterated joy and peace. In order to attain this, try going solo for a long walk in the countryside—minus all the hassles and pressure or turn to meditation. Get in touch with serenity and peace—it’s just there in all of us. Then, as calmly as you can, tell yourself that you’re a genius. Repeat the statement to yourself till it almost becomes meaningless and commonplace. I am a genius—deal with it! Do this for about 5 times daily for 5 days. You could do this with any statements you like your subconscious to believe in. For the final stage, take the plunge and write ahead—whenever you’re ready. Write something about a situation or character which you truly believe in—even if it’s only fictional. Then edit or revise it afterwards till all the words used embody that certain view of reality—as if it is true 100%. Consequently, it is about how much you believe in your own perception of the world. Try to write for your own self and satisfaction and everything else will follow.