Being Infinitely Creative by 'Giving Up'

What up 8AMers,

I wanted to share a recent experience that taught me about the power of ‘giving up’ aka surrendering - specifically in the creative process. This journey unfolded while making a song for the upcoming 8AM album, which is set to release at the end of August.

A few weeks ago, I was on a flight from Boston to LA, working on a new track. As I was producing it, I suddenly heard Rapta's voice—one of my favorite artists and a very talented friend—singing over it. The melody and lyrics poured out of me, raw and real, as the plane descended onto the tarmac at LAX. The moment we landed, I texted Rapta: "Dude, I think I wrote a song that you are meant to sing on." His response was enthusiastic: "Awesome. Let's do it."

A few days later, I visited Rapta's house. I played him the song, and he sang the lyrics exactly as I had envisioned them. It sounded pretty good, and we were both excited. Afterward, I made some tweaks and sent the updated version to Rapta.

His feedback was positive but also constructive: he thought the lyrics could be improved.

At first, I resisted. I felt a strong attachment to the original lyrics, wanting to honor the initial inspiration that I had felt.

Rapta, having been making music for way longer than I have, explained that this attachment is often called "demo-itis"—a tendency to become so attached to a demo or first idea that you overlook potentially better versions.

He gently suggested that the best way to create a great song is to let go of these initial attachments.

He also pointed out that as the artist singing on the track, he needed to feel excited about the lyrics.

At first I was like - “nah. wtf. This is MY song. The lyrics have to be MY vision.” And I was pretty firm about it.

But then, after some meditation and introspection, I decided to ‘give up’ and to surrender to his perspective. I told him, "I meditated on it. And I surrender. You have full control over the lyrics. You're the voice of this track, so do whatever you feel is right."

And with that I let go, handed it over completely.

Rapta took the reins and transformed the song. When I listened to the new version with an open mind, I actually loved it. And admittedly, it was just a better song than my initial ‘download’.

It was a powerful reminder that ‘clinging’ to our initial ideas can sometimes prevent us from experiencing the best version of what life is offering.

This experience taught me that in life, surrendering our attachments allows us to be more open to what life is trying to show us and create through us. It's a lesson in trust and letting go.

If this story resonates with you and you want to explore more about surrender, creativity, and personal growth, I invite you to join The 8AM App. Click here and you can use the code arlin2024 to get your first month for only $1. It's a community, course platform and tool where my mission is to dive into these concepts and support your creative journey.

Om, peace, amen, 
Arlin