Gay Hendricks writes frequently about his 10-second rule, which suggests that relationships flourish or wither in 10-second windows of communication. Generally, he believes that 10 seconds is the amount of time you need to start a fight or open a line of communication with someone you care about. The bad news is, it only takes 10 seconds to hurt your relationship. The good new is, you get another 10 seconds and then another and another.

Thinking about your creative practice, consider about what you need out of this relationship. You might need more time or validation, you might want an audience or an opportunity.

Don’t think about how to obtain any of these things or whether you deserve them or are ready for them. Simply take some time to consider what you need.