It’s Time To Take Your Creativity Into Your Own Hands.
Overcome The Barriers That Keep You From Your Art.
This Closing the Creativity Gap Program is the result of what, up until now, has been my lifelong search for the answer to the question, “Why don’t we do the things we love to do?”
I created this class for you, the one who longs to discover, uncover, recover, expose and experience her unique creative ability unencumbered by the roadblocks daily life can through in your way.
This class is for you if you want more creativity in your life and you’re just not sure how to make that happen.
Are your creative dreams stuffed deep down inside on some interior Layaway plan waiting for that elusive someday?
someday when the time, space, mood or inspiration is right?
someday when you have some spare time?
someday when nobody needs or questions you?
Are you actively consuming other people’s creativity yet starving from a lack of your own?
Are you creating regularly but want to increase your time and improve your results?
From an early age I had a creative desire so strong and persistent, yet I wasn’t acting on it. Creativity experts would have chalked it up to fear and resistance. A little voice inside that I learned to recognize as my intuition, my inner knowing, knew there also had to be something else keeping me from my creative dreams. I threw myself into studying the creative process, art, artists, art history – you name it. Theoretically, I knew how to ease and appease this very real, very persistant creative yearning, yet, I was still immobile. I felt powerless.
Maybe it is best explained by Linda Wheeler, in this email she sent to me:
My search is over thanks to your email…
“What is wrong with me? Why can’t I find my calling? Why do I only get a vague feeling of something elusive, something I can’t put into words. That feeling I can’t describe still persists in the pit of my stomach. And so I continue to search.
I toy with the idea of being a writer and an artist, then scoff at myself. The child whose art teacher laughed at her efforts – who am I to be an artist? I buy books to teach me art that sit unused, mocking me. I spend hours at the screen, admiring the work of others thinking “f only I had the talent.” And that feeling in my stomach grows and I feel I must be broken, ill, not like everyone else. If I could only discover what that feeling is, put it into words, perhaps I’ll know what I’m supposed to do. So I search more.
Ideas fill my head, swirl around at night keeping me awake. So many possibilities of things I could create ….but only when I find the answer to my question of what will fill that hole that eats away at me.
And this morning, there I was again, poring over yet another self help book when your email arrived. I look up and begin to read, and there it is, my answer! Why am I seeking elsewhere when the very thing I desire can only come from my heart, my soul, my hands?
What is missing is the act of creation!
That hole, that feeling that defies words, is the yearning to create. It eats away at me, and grows as I look outside of myself for answers. My endless searching causing the hole to grow, leading to yet more searching, in a vicious cycle of inaction.
Who am I not to create? It is the very purpose of my being. It’s been there inside of me all along. I am not broken, I am not ill, I am not incomplete. I am an artist who isn’t creating. It feels good to be able to say I am an artist.
And now I know what I need to do”
Like Linda, I knew both the meaning and feeling of this yearning all too well. Maybe you do, too?
So why doesn’t yearning lead to doing, to making? There’s plenty of research, articles, books in print and experts who believe that it is all based on fear and fear’s annoying cousins, resistance and procrastination.
Yes, all that is usually present, but I knew there was more, so much more getting in my way. After all, I had six children, a full-time job, no space to call my own and a schedule that would fill a 36 hour day and a 10 day week. Sounds obvious why I wasn’t taking any action on my creative yearning, right? I felt it just wasn’t my time, it wasn’t meant to be. I didn’t deserve, couldn’t expect, to have a creative life because I was living another, different life that I had chosen and created instead.
Obvious to everyone but me, actually. I thought it was all my fault that I wasn’t making any art. Because, after all, if I really wanted to, I would – isn’t that what they say? So I blamed myself. I was too lazy, too disorganized, too undeserving, and too inefficient with my time. Pile feelings of guilt, self-denial, and selfishness on top of that and it’s amazing I got up in the morning.
But passion burns long and deep. For years I went to sleep thinking that maybe tomorrow is the day I get to make art. Maybe I’ll have the time tomorrow. If desire and determination could move mountains, I could have rearranged the world.
What I needed to do was rearrange my thinking.
I was waiting for something to happen.
It turns out I needed to make it happen.
Creativity is a natural process but it doesn’t always come naturally.
WHAT IS THE CREATIVITY GAP PROGRAM?
Closing the Creativity Gap is a revolutionary new concept in understanding and mastering the creative process. It’s not just a collection of abstract ideas to ponder. Closing the Creativity Gap is an easy to understand and accessible set of life-changing actions that when put into practice and are guaranteed to increase your creativity, confidence __________ and overcome the barriers that keep you from your art.
The Creativity Gap Program (CGP) is a one-of-a-kind experience for creatives that shows you how to:
•Identify your personal and unique blocks & challenges.
•Create bridges & solutions that lead to making more art – consistently.
•Understand and draw on your personal talents and strengths.
•Develop confidence and balance in yourself, your life, your art and your creative practice.
You know you are not alone in these gaps, right? Even the most visible, successful and happy-go-lucky artists slip and tip into some of these gaps. It’s human nature. As odd and contrary as it sounds, some of these gaps are innate traps, human survival mechanisms. Unfortunately, when it comes to your right-here right-now survival, they are terribly outdated and generally unnecessary. But oh, they are strong. But…
You can be stronger. I’ll show you how.
Some of the things I will be sharing with you:
- What almost 100 years of creative process study has overlooked
- 21 GAPS hidden within the creative process (and money isn’t one of them)
- How to increase your Creatability Quotient
- Common misconceptions about the creative process
- How to recognize and avoid the habits and tendancies that keep you from your art
- 21 actions that lead to making bad art
I think of you as an "Art Shaman". Your words are like a healing balm for our sometimes fragile artistic souls. Keep up the great work that you do, you are an inspiration to us all. Bless you, for keeping us energized!
Normajean Brevick
You “get” the creativity thing, and have the ability to convey to others that it is not as much what you do, but that you do. |
You say you want to alter a book, stitch up a quilt, work in your journal or start that large canvas in the corner, write the book, article, poems or post, but for some reason you never get around to doing it. Hmmmm, why is that? It’s because you are choosing to do something else with your unscheduled time. |
In that unscheduled time there are many things you choose to do out of love, obligation or necessity: work, sleep, re-stock the household, cook, clean, take care of children or aging parents. And then there are the things you choose to do with your leftover time: ____, ____, ____. (You know what you’re doing, fill in the blanks.)
Do your creative efforts fall into one of these categories:
hit or miss?
start and stop?
binge and starve?
crash and abandon?
dream and deny?
all think, no do?
wither and die?
In Closing the Creativity Gap you will not only find out why your creative efforts do not succeed, but you will discover how to change your behavior, gain control over your circumstances and situation and move into a life that allows for, supports and sustains your innate creativity. The beauty of this is that living a creatively fulfilled life has a blossoming effect that trickles down into all aspects of your life and those in it.
Now let me ask you this – do you choose to love yourself? Do you choose to take care of yourself and be happy so you can continue to care for and give to others? Do you feel that art is necessary to your well-being? I’m pretty sure your answer to all three questions is YES. So what’s stopping you?
Closing the Creativity Gap Program includes:
6 Modules delivered over an 8 week period Videos Discussion Inspiration Motivation Connection & support from like-minded women Weekly Facebook Live Check-ins 2 LIVE Deep Dive Q&A Sessions via Zoom |
This ASAP course is amazing. This class is substantial, well planned, intense, and packed with useful material (and I'm only on lesson 3!). You are an extraordinary, giving person and a gifted teacher. I really debated on spending so much money on the course, but it's worth every penny. Beth Bardino |
As an added bonus, you will received unlimited, lifetime access to Compose+Yourself, a 10 module, personal approach to the art & study of artistic composition. (a $79 value)
It starts with the idea that to arrive at good composition, you have to put yourself in the picture first. (Not literally of course.!) Throughout the course the concepts, framework and tools of composition are taught with a focus on how you see the world. The emphasis is on putting your vision, your feelings, your thoughts and message into your work. It will cover in depth two of the most common Creativity Gaps – confidence and how-to. Compose+Yourself will be available to you at anytime during and after CCGP.
In addition, you can chose to upgrade and enhance your CCGP experience with the Personal Attention Package: 2 one-on-one coaching calls. The first call to be scheduled and held during the program; the second call to occur within a month of the program completion, to ensure that you individual needs, questions and efforts are fully supported going forward. The Personal Attention Package are limited in number and are only being offered at the time of enrollment in the the CCGP to ensure scheduling.
Here’s What Other Have to Say About Working with Me~
When I saw that Lesley had started coaching artists, I knew what I had to do. I worked with Lesley for a year and, unaware that I was at a crossroads in my life. She patiently met me where I was. I have now received my M.A. in Clinical Counseling and work with people to heal their creative spirit…coincidence?
A happy circumstance landed some money in my hand when I heard about ASAP, I knew I had to use it to be part of Lesley's class. I've done a lot of prior research into this topic. Lesley's way of teaching really focuses on the inward discovery process, not just a list of tools and techniques. Final word is that it was money well spent. I'm seeing the rewards already.
As soon as I heard about Lesley Riley’s ASAP program, I signed right up! With Lesley sharing her insight and her years of experience living her creative life, I knew this program would be able to help me get focused. Her program delivered thought-provoking, inspiring and useful information each week. Her program continues to provide support to my ongoing pursuit in success as an artist.
Working with Lesley was a joy! Our conversations helped me get my footing as I moved forward into my career as an artist. She listened to the goals I had set for myself and worked with me to reach them offering insights and practical suggestions. Mind you, she didn't always say what I wanted to hear but she always said what I needed to hear!
Deon Lewis
I took your class Navigation: Charting a Course to Your Soul. I realized that I was really limiting myself in my art due to a lot of stupid fears. I was worried about what others would think and scared of silly things, not to mention success. I wanted to let you know how you have helped me and let you know I really appreciate it.
TiCo Colada
I'm blown away reading how many of the students from your class have had both their art and their human everyday lives forever changed by your Compose Yourself class! Me included. You kept this course fresh and interesting for all ten lessons. I can tell you are deeply dedicated to keeping the arts alive and keeping artists inspired to love what they were born to do!
I've really appreciated all you've put into Artist Success; the lessons are so well thought out, artistically presented, and always encouraging. Participating in the program has helped me understand the importance of "showing up" everyday, focusing on my art, setting goals, and most importantly of all achieving my goals! I'm so proud of my accomplishments this year and credit my progress to you and your program.
Lesley's course is spot on. I did it a year ago and it still takes my breath away. I never thought of it as coaching before, but that is precisely what it was. Every last cent was worth it in my case and I was already quite motivated. It would be very useful for anyone who is questioning their own ability.
HOW DOES THE CCGP WORK?
CCGP is released in scheduled modules containing easy-to-follow lessons which include videos, worksheets, deep dive questions, resource lists, and fun bits & pieces for inspiration & motivation. Everything is online in the private classroom on the online Ruzuku classroom platform website. Students can view the videos, the content, connect with others, and compare notes with classmates, 24/7, come-as-you-are.
CCGP also includes interactive components: weekly Facebook Live events in the private Creativity Gap FB group. This is your opportunity to have Lesley answer your questions and offers strategic advice to ensure that you take consistent action, move forward and receive the highest bang for your buck. They will be scheduled in advance at a variety of days and times so that you can attend. And if you cannot, you can send your question in advance and view the recorded video at your convenience.
You can download all of the videos and worksheets and extras.
As an Inaugural CCGP Enrollee, you have the option of retaking CCGP for a 50% discount each time it is offerred, for as long as the program exists!
Thank you for a WONDERFUL course, Lesley. It has been very fulfilling, challenging, inspiring, informational, motivating, etc., etc. I have been very impressed with all aspects of the course. You are quite the wonderful guru and mentor.
Lesley was invaluable to me because her objective insight, her warm encouragement and her down to earth wisdom helped me gain clarity about my strengths, my weaknesses and about where I wanted to go with my work.
I so appreciate the time, effort and resources you have put into these wonderful classes. Are you certain you aren't the 8th wonder of the world? I'm fairly convinced!!
Carolina Perez
Patti Edmon
You’re done with the big and vague promises, the big magic, bird by bird, just do it advice. You’re ready for a workable solution and a guide to get you, not just in the studio, but making time for making art that makes you happy.
Closing the Creativity Gap meets you right where you are. This life you are living is a good enough place to start, in fact, it is exactly where you need to start from. If you wait until you have all your ducks in a row, a lot of extra time, a creative space to call your own, and the freedom and support to make all the art your heart desires, you’ll miss the opportunity to create a life where that actually happens. And let’s be honest – if you were really able to get all that under control on your own, to handle all of the things stopping you, keeping you from your art, you would have done that by now, right?
•CCGP goes deep and specific versus broad, one size fits all.
•CCGP lays out a well-designed journey for you over the course of eight weeks with a knowledgeable, patient supportive and intuitive guide who has climbed out of the gaps and smoothed the way for the journey before you.
•CCGP is innovative because it blends 1) a new approach and understanding of the creative process unique to womens’ lives, 2) proven workable solutions for re-defining and overcoming creative gaps, blocks and stops, and 3) accountability, time and support towards putting the program into practice.
Show up. Follow the program. Work your plan. And the plan will work for you.
But what if it doesn’t Lesley?
I’ve spent 30+ years working on this program. First personally, informally through mentoring, and formally with private coaching clients. This isn’t something I’ve rushed into as a money-making venture. It is something that I am compelled to share with you because I want for you what you want for yourself, a happy, fulfilling, sustaining creative practice that fits into the life you live. I know for a fact that if you work the program, the program will work for you.
I KNOW it works because I have created just such a life by using this information, these practices and created solutions to overcome 90% of the issues that you may face.
However, if you give it a try, and that means you do the work by taking action and applying the strategies and exercises outlined in the program during the first 30 days and do not see any benefits, I will refund your payment. I’ve made a promise to you that it will work, but you have to promise me that you’ve given it your best effort and a chance to see it it is indeed workable and helpful for you.
You have the added option to to participate in a small, virtual mastermind retreat; or to work with Lesley 1:1.
I was just wishing the other day that I could just keep you in my pocket and take you along with me whenever I had an important decision to make about my work!
Stephanie Dyer
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
“Do I get access to the course all at once? I want it now!”
No. The course begins on April 10th and each Monday for 7 weeks you’ll get a new module released to you. We do it this way because we REALLY want you to get your scary sh*t done and we know that if you’re considering this course, it’s because you haven’t got it done yet. Small and consistent steps are what’s going to get you there.
“I read your “money back guarantee policy.” What do you mean that I have to show PROOF I’ve done the work in order to get my money back?”
It won’t always be easy and that’s when you may decide to bail. LIFE HAPPEN, I know that, yet this is the program that will show you how to handle the curveballs that life throws at your creative life, and because the two are intertwined, your all day, everyday life, too. That’s why this program is a forever access program. Life and circumstances change and this is your tool to handle that. It won’t be easy, but as my mother always told me, anything worth having is worth working for. If life does get in the way in the first 30 days, I hope you choose not to quit. This program is here for you with lifetime access. The time will be right soon enough.
If you do request a refund, there will be forms to complete and I’ll ask you to show your worksheets because we both deserve that kind of accountability when it comes to our most important work.
How much time do I need to allot to this each week?”
This depends completely on the project you pick to get done. Some people are coming into this course with a plan to have their memoir sketched out in 7 weeks. Some people are committing to training for a race that’s two months out. You might be finishing your portfolio to get a gallery or writing everyday or getting your first three paying clients. The time will obviously vary. So, while working through the content I provide will only take 45 – 90 minutes each week, the implementation piece and the homework assignments I suggest will depend on your unique situation.
“What are the dates and times of the live calls?”
The live calls will take place on May —TBD. All calls are at __am Eastern (____pmCentral, __pm Mountain, ___pm Pacific).
“How exactly will the content be delivered and what will it include?”
Each Sunday you’ll get an email from the Ruzuku learning platform. When you log in to the dashboard, you’ll see the material for that week’s lesson. There will be a mix of video, audio and text. They will be available to you to download so that you can watch, listen or read on all devices, whenever and wherever it’s convenient for you. And keep forever!
You’ll also have access to PRIVATE Facebook group, the weekly Facebook LIVE meetings and the four Q&A group meetings via Zoom.
If you choose to upgrade to the Personal Attention Package, you will get information on scheduling your two one-on-one calls with Lesley. It is recommended that you schedule one during the program and one afterwards, within 30 days of the program conclusion.
“Who is this class for?”
This class is for anyone who wants to make a positive change in their relationship to their creative practice. (If you don’t have one, this will be the perfect place to create one that works for you within the life you are currently living.) This program is for you if you yearn to find a balance between your daily obligations and responsibilities and your creative desires.
Who is this program not a good fit for?”
This class is not a good fit for anyone who does not want to change their current relationship with their creative self. It is not recommended for anyone who prefers ideas to action. If you like to acquire knowledge for knowledge’s sake, but never put it into practice, then this program is not a good fit for you. It is an action based program and your results are directly based on the actions you take. This program is not a good fit if you believe your creative life situation is too unique and out of your control for any positive changes to happen.
I feel that my conversation with you earlier this year was a watershed moment for me.