How to make art & overcome self doubt

Do you want to create something..... but are dealing with self doubt and lack motivation to get started...or maybe you just don't know where to start.

We have all been there, but don't let that stop you. Some of the most successful and creative people had to start somewhere. Here is a small guide to move you forward...

Step 1: Figure out what you want to create. Don't even think about "if" you can do it well or not. That is not important, now. Think about what you want to be able to create......be open.

Step 2: Unsure? Time to find inspiration. Look at art, listen to music, ready a story, watch a good film, ect. Find something that boosts your ideas and motivation.

Personally, I enjoy being inspired by literature, life experiences, and music.

Got an Idea? Good? Does it seem unreachable and something you will need to research, practice or work at for it to come to fruition? Great!

Are you?

Step 3: Let go of preconceived notions about your skills, or lack of. Let go of self judgement and fear of the unknown. You are good enough...

"The worst enemy to creativity is self-doubt." -- Sylvia Plath

Get a pen, pencil, or recording device.

Step 4: Write, sketch, or talk out an idea to a voice recorder. A rough draft, to get your idea out of your head & into the land of the living. It does not have to be good, it just has to exist.

Again, doodle, sketch, just flow. Don't forget to let go, and let your mind wander to Ideas and places outside "your" normal .... Let it explore parts of you that are new and exciting, even scary.

Step 5: Look over your ideas with open eyes, ears, and mind. Think about them bigger, better, on a large scale and use them make a goal out of what you came up with.

Don't let fear bind you. You can be whatever you want and do whatever you set out to do. It's that simple.

Make A Goal

EXAMPLE GOAL: I would like to learn to paint people. I have this idea that I would like to paint a portrait of _______________.

Step 6: Now you have the idea, it's time to research what supplies you will need. Try a Google search. Exp: Paint, canvas...

So many options .....go shopping!

Step 7: Practice and learn the new skill. You can buy books, find tutorials on YouTube, take a class, find a mentor, visit an artist studio, ect. Practice, practice, practice...

Practice does not make perfect, but it does help you acquire an "awesomeness" inside yourself as you see accomplishments and growth. Over time, the more you practice the more results you will have.

"We learn by practice. Whether it means to learn to dance by practicing dancing or to learn to live by practice living, the principles are the same.." - M. Graham

Be patient. Skills take time to build. Sometimes months, years, decades. You will keep getting better and better. Be patient with yourself.

In time you will know, just keep creating!

Step 8: Put your heart, mind, body and soul into your work.

"Desire is the starting point of all achievement." - Napoleon Hill

Step 9: Share your creations with others. Not a mandatory step of course, but it can be a source guidance for outside interpretations, feedback and constructive criticism. (only if you wish)

Sharing creations, especially in the beginning while honing your skills can be tough. Honest feedback about technique, subject, colors, word choices, ext -- can be hard to take at first.

Step 10: Learn to take constructive criticism and feedback well. Don't take it personal. Do what wish, and change for no one, but always take into consideration what people say.

Some amazing things can come from being open and hearing out someone else. It can spark new ideas or improve existing ones.

Indeed

Always know you are the king or queen of your world of creativity. No matter what anyone says.

Always grow. Always evolve. Never stick to what is safe.... Always explore.

THANK YOU & GOOD LUCK!! (Artwork by: Aunia Kahn www.auniakahn.com) (FB www.facebook.com/AuniaKahnArt) (Instagram: auniakahn) Photos: Stock Images