[Peter Quill]: Doesn’t eternity get boring?
[Ego]: Not if you have a purpose.
-Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017)
In the intricate dance of life, there exists a profound reciprocity—an unspoken contract between our intentions and the universe. It’s a pact that whispers, “If you protect your purpose, your purpose will protect you.”
This simple yet profound axiom carries within it the power to transform how we navigate our journeys, fostering a harmonious relationship between our aspirations and the world around us.
Imagine your purpose as a beacon, a guiding star that illuminates the path ahead. Just as a lighthouse safeguards ships from treacherous waters, your purpose stands as a guardian, offering direction, strength, and solace. Yet, much like any guardian, your purpose requires nurturing, vigilance, and the determination to stand strong against the currents that threaten its brilliance.
Pablo Picasso’s Napkin
Imagine the scene: a Parisian café, an artist absorbed in his creative contemplation, etching something onto a humble napkin. This vivid tableau encapsulates the essence of Picasso’s artistic process—an intricate dance between skill, intuition, and a lifetime’s worth of learning.
As if scripted by destiny, a woman approaches, brimming with curiosity, and utters those magical words: “I would be happy to pay whatever you believe it’s worth.”
In response, Picasso’s composed demeanor belies the layers of insight he’s about to unravel. He assents to her proposition and, with an air of dignified certitude, utters an unexpected figure: “$20,000.”
The woman’s astonishment is palpable, her confusion apparent as she draws a parallel between the artist’s swift movements and the seemingly extravagant valuation. “But it took you merely thirty seconds,” she muses, seeking to decipher the enigma before her.
With a gaze that penetrates the surface and peers into the core of creativity’s essence, Picasso offers an answer that transcends time and artistry. “No, ma’am” he utters, his voice carrying the weight of six decades of dedication, exploration, and mastery. “It has taken me sixty years to do that.”
“When you practice your purpose, you are also following a map that can lead you to discovering your gifts.”
– Tim Tamashiro, How To Ikigai
How To Protect Your Purpose: Lessons Behind The Story
Related content: Discover Your Life Purpose
The Value of Expertise
Picasso’s response underscores the immense value that expertise, experience, and mastery bring to any creative endeavor. What may seem like a swift creation is, in reality, the culmination of years of learning, experimentation, and growth.
Honoring the Journey
The story emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the journey that leads to a final creation. Every experience, success, and setback contributes to the depth and quality of one’s work. Recognizing this journey is essential in determining the true worth of what is produced.
Underscoring Lifelong Learning
Picasso’s remark reflects the idea that creative pursuits are not stagnant, but are continuously evolving. The pursuit of excellence is a lifelong journey, involving the willingness to learn, adapt, and improve over time.
Beyond Immediate Perception
The story challenges the notion of valuing creative work solely based on the time taken to produce it. True value extends beyond the immediate effort and takes into account the intangible contributions of an artist’s entire artistic journey.
Confidence in Self-Worth
Picasso’s firm request for a substantial sum exemplifies the importance of having confidence in one’s self-worth. The story encourages individuals to unapologetically value their own creations and not settle for less than they deserve.
Respecting the Craft
The story emphasizes the respect one should have for their own craft or expertise. Picasso’s response implies that a fair price not only compensates for the immediate time spent, but also respects the depth of skill and effort involved.
The Power of Perspective
Picasso’s perspective shifts the focus from the immediate product to the artist’s lifelong commitment. This shift in perspective encourages us to view creative work with a broader lens and appreciate the broader context in which it’s created.
Unveiling the Unseen
The story reveals the layers beneath the surface, showcasing that what might seem simple or quick is backed by layers of knowledge, practice, and innovation.
Challenge to Conventional Pricing
Picasso’s response challenges conventional pricing models that solely focus on immediate effort. It encourages us to consider the cumulative value of experience, insight, and expertise.
Inspiration for Creative Souls
For artists and creators, the story provides inspiration to confidently assert their worth and acknowledge the cumulative investment they’ve made in their craft. It serves as a reminder to never underestimate the value of one’s artistic journey.
Conclusion
In essence, the story encapsulates the essence of creativity, dedication, and self-worth. It urges us to look beyond the surface and recognize the immeasurable value that expertise, experience, and lifelong dedication bring to any creation. Just as Picasso’s napkin held decades of artistic evolution, our work is enriched by the experiences, growth, and passion that infuse it with depth and significance.