When I first started creating this artwork, every piece was self-initiated. Whether it was documenting something that happened recently or thoughts on a particular topic, I was the one (for better or worse) responsible for the content.
However, lately I’ve been getting more opportunities to create artwork for others, which feels like a milestone worth marking. (the images in the banner above are examples of some of that work)
Having people approach me about doing work for them has been validating and helps me get closer to some of the larger goals I’ve made.
It also appears that the more projects I do for others the more confidant I’m becoming in how I create artwork.
Don’t get me wrong, I still have a healthy fear of failing in an epic way, but it does appear that the only remedy for that is to face that fear head-on and show it who’s boss.
Repetition and facing fears are part of the un-glamorous reality of building something or growing a skill.
We all like the idea of “overnight success” or seeing a striking difference in “before and after” pictures, but the truth is there are countless hours spent in the trenches just getting the work done in order to prepare you for taking on the next challenge.
If there is something that you are wanting to get better at, whether it’s running a marathon or sewing or public speaking, the only way to create lasting change is to be intentional about making time to do that activity.
Don’t wait for the “perfect moment”. Instead, embrace the fact that you will need to clock dozens and dozens of hours doing something in order to master it.
Now before you despair about how daunting that may seem, let me also offer you encouragement that a little step is good progress.
Taking just 10 minutes a day to work on your goal is progress in the right direction.
Don’t fret that it’s only 10 minutes; something is always better than nothing. And once you start to make space in your life, the better chance you give yourself to determine whether this is a passion that you really want to invest in. (I would discourage fretting of any kind; it’s very unproductive)
So this week I’m celebrating consistency by continuing to show up and do the thing I love. Plus, people asking for new artwork has created even more opportunities for me to exercise my creative muscle.
How about you? What’s something that you want to get better at and how will you show up to grow it?
One of those recent products I mentioned above has become a new product in the shop (mug shown on right). If anyone is interested in our new Trumpty Dumpty mugs, here is a link to the product in the shop!
Leave a Reply