Balance between Creation and Consumption

One thing I strongly believe in is maintaining a balance between creation and consumption.
I think that not maintaining this balance can be a major cause of discontent in the modern world.
It's convenient to consume, but creation allows you to bask in the glory of your own work. The drawback? Creating is difficult, takes time, and there is no guarantee of success. Creation is a way to take control over what you do.

Your creations might get criticized by other consumers, or even yourself. Being a critic is easy, but when you create you start to appreciate the work.
When you consume someone else's work, you're not in control. You're at the mercy of someone else's standards and their creations may have the intent of making you feel a certain way. Consuming is not a negative thing, you should enjoy and appreciate other people's work. However, if you do too much of it without a balance, then your perspectives may not be entirely your own.

The word "creation" may sound intimidating but it doesn't have to be complex. Make something. Write something. Learn a skill you can get better at, it doesn't matter if you're good or not. Cook a meal instead of ordering one.

This post is a creation by me. The photos involve the handstand training I did to be able to hold the pose, the hiking I did to find the location, setting up the photo frame and focus, the time I took to learn how to use my camera, editing the photos, and of course writing these words.
If you looked at the photos and read the words, you have consumed my creation. Did you appreciate the work that went into it? Probably not unless you do some similar work yourself. That's OK.
Does this post inspire you to create something? Good. Go forth and conquer. You'll feel better for doing it. My work is complete and the balance is restored.