Everyone talks about the messy middle. Very few talk from there.
Because to speak from the messy middle means revealing a place that has no arc yet, no resolution, no moral of the story. It means:
— no brand,
— no clarity,
— no before/after graphic,
— no “five steps.”
The messy middle is the realm where identity is partially dissolved, but not yet rearranged.
Where the map has already ended, and the next one hasn’t materialised.
It is the chrysalis phase we were speaking of earlier, the goo stage, and society hates goo.
We talk about the messy middle like tourists describing a land they refuse to live in.
“It’s important!”
“It’s where growth happens!”
“It’s uncomfortable but beautiful!”
Sounds familiar?
But talking from the messy middle requires:
• porousness,
• humility,
• the willingness to be undone publicly,
• the courage to admit “I don’t know yet,”
• the refusal to narrate oneself as a hero.
It’s not performative vulnerability; it’s relational honesty.
Not performing.
Not packaging.
Just naming the fog as fog.
Those familiar with my work, and the Messy Art practice, know it is not about answers. It’s all about the inquiries, without expecting a resolution. These are some inquiries for you to explore (without rushing out):
• What am I trying to resolve too quickly?
• What wants to be witnessed, not fixed?
• What if I let this phase be a place, not a problem?
If you would like to practice with me, simply connect with me.
If you’re interested in learning more about my services and would like to discuss any consultancy, workshops, talks, please reach out.
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