Live The Journey
Let’s talk about confidence (Art confidence).
Since the very beginning of my art journey (we’re talking nine-year-old me drawing anime), confidence has always been a tricky hing. I’ve struggled with believing in my work. But over time, I’ve learned to slow down, stay present, and truly see the beauty in what I create. It’s been a long process to get here, and I’m still growing into that confidence.
Comparison is the Thief of Joy
When I started college to study art, it was such a thrill to be part of a community filled with creative people. But I quickly found myself battling a fear of being average and failing, especially with so many talented artists around. I felt this huge pressure to be perfect and not let anyone down. I often thought everyone else was better than me, constantly comparing myself to my classmates and even professionals with years of experience. I expected myself to create amazing art, and if I didn’t hit that mark, I’d get really down on myself. It made creating art feel stressful instead of fun.
In all that comparison, I totally overlooked my own achievements and progress. But I’ve learned that we’re all on our own unique journeys; some are ahead, some are behind, and that’s totally okay. We’re all just moving at our own pace, and embracing that has helped me find joy in my art again.
Be Eager To Fail
You must FAIL!!
The unnecessary pressure I put on myself to be perfect led to a creative block, a time when I found it hard to do anything art-related without feeling anxious or exhausted before even starting. I was overwhelmed by a fear of failing.
While talking to my sister about this struggle, she recommended a book she had come across called The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron (which I highly recommend to anyone!).
Reading this book helped me realize that the success of my art doesn’t define my worth. It also taught me how to embrace failure as a part of the journey. I learned that failing means learning and getting the chance to try again. To fail is simply to try, and each attempt brings me closer to becoming a better artist.
Now, when I look back at everything I once thought wasn’t good enough, I can see the beauty in it. I think, “This isn’t so bad,” or “This has real potential.”
This shift in perspective has lifted the pressure of being perfect and allows me to simply be. I’m focused on how much I can learn through my mistakes, aiming to grow as both an artist and a person.
Live Your Journey
Once, a professor shared a phrase that resonated deeply with him: "You are here." He explained how it struck him while he was looking at one of those maps you find in malls or zoos, marked with an arrow indicating your location. In that moment, he realized, "I am here indeed." This simple insight grounded him, inspiring me to discover my own guiding mantra.
For me, that mantra has become "Live the journey." It serves as a constant reminder to embrace the present moment, to be fully engaged and alive in my experiences, nothing else matters. The true magic of art (and life) lies in the journey itself, in the experiences that shape us.
This mantra helps me slow down, take a breath, and appreciate the path I’m on. It encourages me to enjoy the scenic routes and just live, knowing that each step is part of my unique story.
Let me know what mantras you come up with.
Recommended Books!
I love reading so you might find recommendations at the end of each post :)
Here are some books that have helped me build confidence in myself and my work.
The Artist’s Way - Julia Cameron (Even though it talks about creatives, I believe it could apply to everyone)
The Courage To Be Disliked - Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga (This one was really good)
You Are A Badass - Jen Sincero (also really good)