Have you noticed that the first response that most people have after experiencing a creative endeavor is to express a judgement about it? While walking out of the theater or restaurant, there seems to be a compulsion to talk about how good or bad the food or performance was. When we watch our kids’ concert or see a friend’s craft project, we’re probably going to be generous in offering positive opinions, but we still feel compelled to offer a judgement about how great it is.
Why is this?
As you read this, are you asking, “what else would you do?”
A while back, my wife pointed out to me that right after the kids game, the kids really aren’t open to coaching, and they already have an idea of how they played. She suggested that the best feedback might be to just tell them how much we enjoyed watching them. I tried it and based on their response, I think she’s right.
I realized that focusing on our subjective experience could be a good approach for after attending any creative performance. This is not just for the creator, but to remind us to be present and allow ourselves to think about the pleasure that comes from experience. We go to plays or try different restaurants because doing do brings us pleasure. Watching sports is fun.
We can marvel at the skill that we are witness to, or admire the effort that went into the performance. It feels good to be witness to creative works. It can make us feel alive. It doesn’t require judgement to feel good.
Next time you have a chance, try commenting on the aesthetic experience instead of judging. I hope that in doing so that your enjoyment is enhanced and that it brings more joy to your life.
