When in doubt, collaborate
Sometimes all we need is a little outside input
Outside of Midnight Voice Memos, I’m a freelance strategist and solo artist. So many of my days are spent almost entirely in my own head, it’s easy to get stuck in there. It’s also easy to become depleted, start experiencing imposter syndrome, and doom spiral into convincing myself that trying to follow this creative path is utterly useless—it’s such fun!
Over the last few weeks I’ve been reminded multiple times that, for me, outside input is a sturdy antidote to the doubt that arises from so much time spent alone.
I was reminded when I started experiment collaborations with some of y’all, and met the smartest, most creative and compelling people I had in a while.
I was reminded when I started co-working at least once a week with other freelancers and ended each of those days feeling energized, playful, and full of new ideas.
I was reminded when I spent an evening jamming with a friend and went to bed exhausted but also revitalized.
Of course, some of these represent a very loose version of collaboration. But there’s something to it. No human is an island. Sometimes the best way forward includes sharing or working with others. Also of course, it’s not always easy. It can be really intimidating. For some, it is as draining as it is rewarding. But I believe for many of us, it’s a powerful tool.
So this week, here are some memos on working more collaboration into your life.
Big love,
Lucy
‘Memos on easy collaboration
MEMO - “Having a conversation is collaboration”
A conversation is a collaboration in sharing and shaping ideas. Put yourself in the way of at least one conversation you might not normally have. Call someone you might not usually call. Say something to a stranger. Call someone you would usually call, but have a different kind of conversation. Reach out to someone you admire and see if they have 15 minutes for you to ask them some questions.
MEMO - “Watching a live show is collaboration”
It doesn’t matter if there’s no communication beyond performance and receiving the performance. Watching a live show is collaboration. Try to take the show on its own terms. Truly, really listen to it. See how it moves or doesn’t move you. Let it wash or trample over you. Try to be open.
MEMO - “Swapping songs is collaboration”
I feel like most people probably thought of collaborating on a song when they read the headline of this post. There’s no reason I’d rule that out, but I think swapping songs also counts as collaboration. Keep the stakes low. Be clear about the type of input/feedback you’re seeking, or the purpose of the share. Meet up in person and share, or email someone on the other side of the world.
More personal note: I’ve been experimenting with content lately. You might have noticed: extra emails, different visual styles, shifting newsletter and headline formats. I’m trying to dial in something more refined, but I can appreciate if it feels a little chaotic. In some ways, ideas like Midnight Voice Memos always shape shift, but I also think I’m very close to something much more solid. In the meantime, I’d love to hear from you. Are experiment emails welcome? What parts of the format do you like or dislike? What about email length? It’s all fair game.
Digging this? You can find more MVM goodies on Gumroad.
Midnight Voice Memos is an audience-supported outfit. If you love my work, please consider a paid subscription, which gives you access to my weekly Song Club, as well as bonus content, discounts and downloads.