Podcast host CJMiller chats with artist and author Sharon J. Burton about affirmations and her upcoming book release, "Creative Sparks: 21 Affirmations and Inspiration for Creativity at Midlife."

Sharon believes that many people from her generation have been suppressed from being creative, and when they arrive at midlife, they often have time and money to be creative but encounter blocks. Sharon shares her story of rediscovering her art side and describes her book as a love letter to others, saying, "You can do this."

Each chapter shares her personal story and presents a starting affirmation. The reader can adopt that affirmation or create one more specific to their needs. An affirmation should be written in the present tense. She encourages artists to pivot negative beliefs into positive language that begins a new thought pattern.

The author shares how she selects a new affirmation each day based on her intentions for that day. Before she journals, she writes an affirmation seven times. This ritual puts her in the right frame of mind before beginning the creative process. She also suggests putting your affirmations where you see them in your studio throughout the day. CJ places his affirmation on his mirror to read every morning.

Each chapter deals with issues often faced by artists. CJ and Sharon discuss an issue artists deal with imposter syndrome. Sharon asks the listener to locate where the feeling came from; did someone say something, or was it a voice in your head? Then, write the opposite in an affirmative statement. Write who you truly are.

She cautions that affirmations are a good tool but not a magic pill. Sometimes, we encounter blocks that require professional help. Affirmations are just tools that are part of your arsenal for being a creative person.

The artist concludes the podcast by encouraging everyone to celebrate and embrace their creativity.

Sharon J. Burton is an artist, art curator, poet, teaching artist, yoga nidra guide, certified creativity coach, and founder of Spark Your Creative based in the Washington, DC, area.

She is also the host of Spark Your Creative Podcast, which features artists and other creatives using their unique talents to create more mindful communities and a safer world.

She is the author of Creative Sparks: 21 Affirmations and Inspiration for Creativity at Midlife, published by Swiner Publishing Company, which will be released on May 14, 2024.

• The book launches on May 14 with a sale on the ebook Kindle version (let's not share the price)
• A Virtual Launch Party will start at 7 pm ET on the Spark Your Creative Facebook and YouTube page. There will be book and swag giveaways, a reading from the book by me, and interviews with two artists who contributed to the book.
• To learn more about the book, people can visit https://www.sparkyourcreative.com/book.html.

More information about CJ, can be found at https//www.spiritualartisttoday.com