Finding Motivation
There are times in which I find it difficult to get started. Sometimes it is after a major achievement or move forward. Sometimes it is after a rejection or disappointment. Sometimes it is just sheer laziness. How do you get moving again in your painting journey?Currently, I’ve just finished an amazing couple of months on new work for an upcoming show. Over the summer I learned some great lessons, tried new things, altered my approach and had great results. Now I need to get motivated to do more of the same, but I’m a bit lazy. Here are things I’ve found helpful in the past.
- Try a 30 day painting a day challenge. The discipline is extremely valuable and I’ve always improved along the way. You need to be organized in identifying your subject matter and accumulating supplies ahead of time. You also need to structure your days to be sure t fit in time to paint -also valuable. In the winter months, it can really bring color and joy into an otherwise cold season. Worth a try.
- Sketch. Attempt a sketch journal for a month. I’ve read a couple of Danny Gregory’s books on making this a good habit in life.
- Take “artists dates” weekly. Julie Cameron’s “Artist’s Way” started this habit for me several years ago. Great fun! Always inspirational.
- Set some specific stretch goals for your practice this year. Last year at this time I made a list that included participating in a plein air paint out, taking a major workshop, and scheduling a solo exhibit. All completed as a result of moving in steps toward each one.
- Push to try a new color palette, new subject matter, new brushes, new media.
- Remember your ‘why’. For me, even if I paint them and throw them away, the process and the doing are so fulfilling and joy creating that I won’t stop. Painting relieves stress, causes you to see differently and can lead to great friendships.
It is time to get started once more to see what the year will bring. What are your motivators?