Beginning can be so challenging.  Have you even noticed when you start something new, challenge yourself, that your negative/judgemental self comes along with you.  

I know why this is... we don't have enough evidence to combat the negative chatter. 

Unfortunately, the only way to gather evidence is to keep practicing.  To build up a body of attempts that you can compare or maybe not compare but rather take pride in the number of times you have shown up to try. 

The one thing I know for sure is that the self doubting part of us is not something that is going to go away.  However, when we practice we relax into the tangible evidence that we have collected.

There is a real sense of accomplishment and pride.  Whatever you are showing up for.  I used to love running because if you ran a 5 km race that is hard evidence of what you have accomplished.  It's undeniable proof.  Painting, for me, is the same thing.  

When I look around my colourful studio, while doubt is sitting with me at the easel, I have all the proof to contradict what doubt is wanting me to believe. 

What are you showing up for consistently?  Do you feel a sense of pride for that commitment?  Perhaps you haven't considered that, up until now. 

I'd love to hear your thoughts.  Leave me a comment below. 

Better yet, join my V.I.P. email list and I'll give you early access and sneak peeks at what I'm working on. 

​Here's the link to do that.  

As many creatives can attest, the journey to their art practice is often not linear.  In fact, many, including myself, have been faced with negativity, harsh criticism, critiques that were not helpful and yet there was still the desire to continue. 

Where does that come from? 

God/Spirit/Divine/Universe.... I don't really know.  All I know is that when I don't make room for my creativity I am not well.  and I mean that quite literally.  I am not myself if I am not following my inspiration and creative urges. 

Not to self: Your creativity is non-negotiable. 

Part of my journey has certainly been filled with desire and push back while other aspects have included comparison to other and others comparing to me.  All these situations have slowed me down or stopped me from creating. 

Inevitably I come to my senses and return to my creativity.  I've been blessed to have a couple of mentors who saw potential and believed in me when I wasn't able to do that for myself. 

In reflecting on my journey, I suspect that I could possibly be that mentor for someone else.  To believe in another creative enough that are willing to start creating again, or start period. 

One of the ways I intend to do that is with my first art compilation.  It's a small book sharing some stories, images and inspiration.  

This is the editing copy and will be available for purchase very shortly. 

Leave a comment and share some of your creative successes or detours.