Is creative fear holding you back? 4 questions & solutions
Here’s the thing about fear. It holds you back. I’m sitting here going through the process of editing video, and as I watch the time lapse of myself painting, I’m realizing that fear is staring me right in the face.
I have this default idea in my head that no one is interested in my art — besides my mom (Hi, Mom!). That I’ve put stuff out there, and put stuff out there, and nothing happens. That no one even likes my art. But then I find myself watching the video over and over, and realize, hey, I like it. If this was someone else’s work, I’d want to watch it. So, why wouldn’t other people be interested?
And then I remember that my cousin has been asking when she can order a coloring book. And my son’s girlfriend wanted me to save two for her. And the middle school kid who Instagrammed a photo of my drawing at the event I attended last week. That the founder of my local artist group keeps giving me blog and video content ideas, because she wants to read the content.
But yet I procrastinate. Why? What am I afraid of? What’s the worst that could happen? Nobody reads or watches it? Okay, big deal. But what’s the best that could happen? If I just encourage one person — just one. Then it’s worth it. So, Heidi, get out of your head. It’s not about you. It’s for them. For the people, man. Just shut up and go do it.
The thing is, your perception of your work is just that — your perception. It’s not necessarily the truth. take a step back and ask yourself:
Ok so maybe things aren’t really taking off yet, but am I gaining momentum?
Am I improving?
Am I evolving my style in tandem with my artistic growth?
is anyone — ANYONE — encouraging me? * (see below)
If the answer to the above questions is yes, then you need to take a good look in the mirror and tell yourself to get out of the way and like Nike says, just do it.
If the answer is no, then you need to ask yourself why:
Did you start strong, waver, and now hardly ever look at the project? If you’re not passionate about it, maybe it’s not what you should be putting your energy toward.
Has your work hit a plateau? look at your total work from one year. Did it evolve or change at all, or does it all look the same? Did you introduce any new style elements? If not, then maybe it’s time to explore & incorporate new influences, colors, techniques, or style. It might just give you the creative motivation you need.
Finally, if someone is giving you positive feedback, focus on that. THEY are your audience. Focus on the good rather than all that negative self criticizing BS floating around in your head. Because as much as you like your art, YOU are not your target audience, and you’re also way too hard on yourself.
If you want to make art just for you and no one else, then go live in a mountain hut surrounded by your paintings and don’t bitch about the fact that no one’s buying anything. No, the person who encourages you, who says, “Oh, I love it!” whenever you finish a project - that’s your audience. They are your true fans. Even if there’s only one. Even if it’s only your mom.
Hey, if your mom is anything like my mom, they can’t wait to blab all about you to their friends. And guess what? Their friends usually have kids and grandkids and other friends. And they always need something to talk about. Let it be you. Family and friends can be some of your greatest cheerleaders, and willing marketing gurus.
So, I’m gonna follow my own advice, get out of my own way and go work on a couple of videos.
Good talk. Thx
xo
HH
*If you DON’T feel like you have a cheerleader, then consider it to be me. I’m cheering you on. And this lady. Imagine she is the president of your fan club and everything you do just gets her PUMPED. Now go get to work.
This lady is your biggest fan.
Don’t let her down.
(and yes, my mom would totally do this.)