Today, I’m diving into a topic that’s close to my heart – feeling good as an artist. Feeling good is not just a luxury; it’s an essential aspect of our creative journey. We all dream of achieving that state of contentment, of finally reaching a point where everything falls into place, and we can say, “I’m happy, I feel good.”
But let’s face it, we’ve all fallen into the trap of thinking that happiness lies in external achievements or possessions. We believe that once we attain a certain goal, like becoming a full-time artist or reaching a specific milestone, we’ll finally feel good. Yet, many have learned the hard way that this isn’t necessarily true. They spend their lives chasing after things they believe will make them happy, only to find themselves feeling the same as before, maybe even more dissatisfied.
It’s tragic when we realize that we’ve been looking for happiness in the wrong places, thinking it’s something we can collect or achieve. The truth is that feeling good is a state of mind that exists in the present moment. It’s about embracing where you are right now and finding habits and ways of thinking that allow you to feel good within that moment.
I’ve experienced it myself as an artist. There are times when things don’t go as planned, and I’m not feeling good. Strangely enough, getting into the studio, which I know is my happy place, becomes a struggle. I feel like I’m walking through molasses, unable to take that step. This happens when we don’t practice feeling good every day, as much as possible. When our overall well-being and happiness take a backseat, it becomes challenging to move forward and progress in our art careers.
So, what can we do to cultivate a sense of well-being and happiness as artists? Here are some practices that I incorporate into my daily life, and I encourage you to try them too:
Gratitude: Take a few moments each day to acknowledge and appreciate the positive aspects of your life. It can be something simple like the sunlight streaming through your window or being grateful for the gift of breathing. Make a habit of focusing on the things you appreciate, and you’ll notice a shift in your perspective and mood.
Physical Activity: As artists, we often spend a lot of time sitting down, which can lead to stagnation. Engaging in physical activity not only helps reduce stress but also releases mood-lifting endorphins. Whether it’s going for a walk, doing yoga, or dancing around like a fool, find something you enjoy and make it a part of your routine.
Human Connection: Art can be a lonely endeavor, but it’s essential to connect with others. Attend events, join art communities, or simply meet up with fellow artists for a chat. Human connection provides a sense of belonging and positively impacts our overall mood.
Mindfulness and Meditation: Take time to be present in the moment. Pay attention to your thoughts and feelings. This practice helps you become aware of negative thought patterns and allows you to redirect your focus towards positive and solution-oriented thinking.
Pursue Joyful Activities: Make time for the art and activities you love. Don’t chase money just for the sake of it; prioritize what brings you joy and a sense of accomplishment. Doing what you love will naturally contribute to feeling good.
Remember, feeling good is a personal journey. It’s okay to have ups and downs, and it’s essential to be patient with yourself. Finding what works best for you in maintaining a positive outlook is key. If you find yourself struggling with negative feelings, don’t hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or even professional help.
Ultimately, feeling good is about taking control of your thoughts and choosing happiness in the present moment. Embrace gratitude, physical activity, human connections, mindfulness, and pursuits that bring you joy. By practicing these daily, you’ll find yourself in a better state of mind, ready to face the challenges and joys of your artistic journey.
Remember, you have the power to shape your perspective and create a positive and fulfilling artistic life. Embrace the journey, be kind to yourself, and above all, keep creating. Wishing you all an incredible week filled with inspiration and creativity. I adore each and every one of you, and until next time, keep shining bright!
