You might often feel insecure about your art, especially when you constantly compare your work to others.
It’s important to remember that every artist has a unique journey, and focusing on your own progress can be incredibly liberating.
By celebrating your achievements, no matter how small, you start to build a healthier relationship with your craft.
Embracing learning and creating without the pressure of external validation can completely transform your perspective.
So, how do you shift your mindset and truly enjoy your artistic journey?
Let’s explore some practical steps to get you there.
Table Of Contents
Stop Comparing Yourself With Other Artists
One of the most important steps to overcoming artistic insecurity is to stop comparing yourself to other artists.
When you constantly measure your work against others, you inevitably invite self-doubt and erode your confidence as an artist.
Remember, every artist’s journey is unique and marked by distinct experiences, techniques, and expressions.
By focusing on your own path, you can stop feeling insecure and start appreciating your individual growth.
Comparisons can be particularly damaging in a field that thrives on creativity and innovation.
Instead of looking sideways, look inward.
Celebrate your progress and acknowledge the milestones you’ve achieved.
This shift in perspective boosts your confidence and fosters a healthier relationship with your art.
It’s natural to admire the work of others, but don’t let it diminish your own.
Whenever you catch yourself falling into the comparison trap, remind yourself that your value as an artist isn’t determined by someone else’s success.
Focusing on your unique voice and vision will cultivate a stronger sense of self-worth and creative fulfillment.
Embrace your individuality, and you’ll find the confidence to shine in your own right.
Enjoy The Process Of Drawing (And Learning)
Embrace the joy of drawing and learning as an artist by focusing on the process rather than the end result.
Immersing yourself in the act of creation allows room for true artistic growth.
Each brushstroke or pencil mark is a step forward in your journey.
Celebrate these moments with positive self-talk, reminding yourself that every effort contributes to your learning process.
As you draw, engage creatively by experimenting with new techniques and materials.
This exploration enhances your skills and keeps the experience fresh and exciting.
Think of each piece as a learning opportunity rather than a final product.
If something doesn’t turn out as expected, view it as a stepping stone toward improvement, not a setback.
Drawing Is A Marathon, Not A Sprint
Drawing, much like a marathon, requires patience, persistence, and a long-term commitment to your artistic journey.
It’s easy to get caught up in wanting immediate results, but the true beauty lies in the slow, steady progress you make over time.
Remember, every stroke of the pencil builds your confidence and self-esteem.
You’re not just initiating art; you’re starting on a personal growth adventure.
Whether deemed a success or a lesson, each piece contributes to your evolving skills and unique style.
Embrace this marathon mindset and acknowledge that mastery doesn’t happen overnight.
Celebrate small victories and milestones; they’re evidence of your dedication and growth.
In a world that often glorifies instant success, it’s essential to recognize the value of persistence.
Focus on your path, trust the process, and keep moving forward.
It’s OK to Fail And Start Again!
It’s perfectly normal to stumble and start over in your artistic journey, and each attempt brings you closer to growth and mastery.
As an artist, you might feel a surge of insecurity when a piece doesn’t turn out as envisioned.
But remember, failure isn’t the end: it’s part of the process. Every failure offers valuable lessons that help you overcome challenges and refine your craft.
If you’re unhappy with your art style, you can always start from scratch and learn an entirely new artistic style!
Maybe try a new material and have fun exploring it.
Starting over isn’t a sign of weakness; it confirms your resilience and commitment to innovation. Building up your self-confidence and self-esteem as an artist.
When you fail, you gain insights into your techniques, discover new approaches, and push the boundaries of your creativity.
This iterative process is where proper artistic growth happens.
Don’t be afraid to scrap a piece and begin again.
Embrace the fresh start as an opportunity to apply your new knowledge and create something even more remarkable.
Fill up some sketchbooks along the way and find 4 Easy Ways To Draw More Often.
And if you’re ready to kickstart your drawing career, check out my Complete Figure Drawing Course!
Patricia Caldeira is the main writer here at Don Corgi. She's an art teacher with over 20.000 happy students across many platforms and courses!
Enjoy your stay and as always:
Keep on drawing!
