Today, I want to candidly discuss something that many of us face on our creative journeys: discouragement. It’s a topic often overlooked, yet it’s a formidable adversary that can sneak up on us when we least expect it. Whether you’re just starting or you’ve been at this artistic endeavor for a while, I want you to know that you’re not alone in battling those moments of doubt and fear.
The misconception that once you’ve been in the creative field for a while, you’ll stride forward with unwavering confidence is far from the truth. In reality, everyone, including myself, has fought our inner demons and insecurities along the way.
I’ve played music for a long time, but even the thought of sharing my music with the world was utterly terrifying. I’ve always dreamt of writing books, but the idea of putting my words out there for scrutiny sent shivers down my spine. And don’t even get me started on sharing my artwork with the world – that felt like stepping into the abyss.
The common thread through all these creative endeavors was battling insecurity. It wasn’t about whether I’d achieve instant success or gain an army of followers. It was about pushing through the discomfort and persisting in my artistic journey.
Here’s the thing: As artists, our path is rarely a steady stream of certainty. Instead, it resembles more of a rollercoaster ride, with ups and downs, twists and turns. Your financial situation and your insecurities may mirror this pattern, and it’s something you’ll learn to navigate as you continue your journey.
Every time you challenge yourself with new projects, venture into unfamiliar territories, or dare to switch things up, you’ll likely encounter discouragement. The biggest foe we face is often the voice inside our heads – I call it the “stickman.” It’s the voice that tells us we’re not good enough, that nobody cares, that we should give up.
Especially in the beginning, when you’re sharing your work on social media and it feels like nobody is paying attention, that voice can be relentless. Friends and family might not seem as interested as you’d hoped, and it’s easy to wonder why they aren’t rallying behind your creative endeavors. But remember, people have their own lives, and it’s not a reflection of your worth or talent.
Early on, I discovered the importance of not fixating on my bank account or the number of likes and subscribers. For the first few years, it often felt like nobody cared about what I was creating. But that’s not why I started in the first place.
I embarked on this artistic journey because I had something to say and express. The act of putting my thoughts, my art, my music, or my videos out into the world was about fulfilling my creative drive, not about seeking validation.
Our world often measures success by numbers – followers, likes, shares, and dollars. But I’m here to tell you to cast aside that shallow metric. Instead, create for the sake of creation itself. Be unapologetically yourself, embrace your uniqueness, and share your work because you love it.
Yes, it’s tough when you pour your heart and soul into something, and the response doesn’t match your expectations. You may even encounter imposter syndrome and insecurity, but don’t let them deter you. Remember why you do what you do. For me, I started creating art because I had a voice to share. I started making videos to connect with other creatives worldwide, something I wished someone had done for me.
I don’t create my art, music, or videos for the few naysayers who might criticize or dislike my work. I create them for the hundreds who appreciate and find value in what I do, but mostly for myself. It’s crucial to persist without constantly seeking validation because, in the end, you’re your most important audience.
You might experience moments when you question why you’re doing what you do, especially when it feels like nobody cares. In those times, find strength in the knowledge that everything you do matters. You might not notice it, but your creativity ripples through the world, impacting people in ways you may never fully understand.
So, I leave you with this: Create what you want to create. Put it out there because you have something to say, not because you’re chasing fame or validation. Then, persist through the storms of doubt and discouragement. Keep going because you’re a badass; the world deserves to know your unique voice.
I recently doubted myself, but a heartfelt message from a supporter reminded me why I do what I do. Find your reason, embrace the gauntlet of creativity, and keep going. There may not be an easier way, but trust me; it’s worth it.
Thank you for reading, and remember that you’re awesome. Keep rocking your art!
Adios,
Rafi
