The quote “Cover the canvas at the first go, then work at it until you see nothing more to add” emphasizes a two-step approach to creativity and self-expression. The first part, “cover the canvas at the first go,” suggests that one should start boldly and without hesitation. It encourages individuals to lay down a broad foundation of ideas, emotions, or concepts without overthinking or second-guessing themselves. This initial phase is about freeing oneself from constraints—allowing spontaneity and instinct to drive the process.
The second part, “then work at it until you see nothing more to add,” implies that after this initial act of creation, one should refine their work thoughtfully. This means revisiting what’s been done and carefully considering how each element contributes to the overall piece. It calls for reflection and discernment: recognizing when something is finished or when further additions would be superfluous.
In today’s world, this idea can be applied in various domains—from art and writing to personal development and project management. For instance:
1. **Creative Pursuits**: Artists or writers might use this approach by creating a rough draft without focusing on perfection initially. Once they have their ideas laid out (the canvas covered), they can then edit, refine, or enhance their work based on what resonates most strongly with them.
2. **Personal Development**: When setting goals or embarking on new habits, an individual might first outline all potential areas for growth—career aspirations, health objectives, relationships—without worrying too much about feasibility right away (the initial covering). Later on, they can prioritize these goals by examining which ones truly resonate with them—the aspects where further effort will yield meaningful results.
3. **Project Management**: In business contexts where brainstorming sessions generate numerous ideas for new products or strategies, teams could implement this approach by generating a wide array of concepts before narrowing down those that are most viable through collaborative evaluation.
Overall, this quote highlights two critical elements of creativity and growth: boldness in initiation followed by thoughtful refinement—a balance between action and reflection that applies not only in artistic endeavors but also in various aspects of life today where innovation thrives on exploration followed by careful execution.