Every creative journey is filled with moments of inspiration, bursts of energy, and the thrill of creating something new. However, these highs often coexist with periods of self-doubt, uncertainty, and burnout. During these times, staying motivated can become a challenge, leading you to question your abilities or your path. Overcoming self-doubt is integral to the creative process. Here are strategies to help you stay motivated when doubt creeps in.
Accept that self-doubt is normal
One of the first steps in overcoming self-doubt is realizing that it is a universal experience. Whether you are a beginner or an accomplished artist, writer, or designer, everyone faces moments of insecurity. Some of the world’s most renowned creators have grappled with self-doubt.
Take Vincent van Gogh, for example. Despite his influential works, often questioned his talent and worth. In letters to his brother Theo, he expressed frustrations with his work, calling himself a failure. Yet, his passion for art drove him to create masterpieces like ‘Starry Night’ and ‘Sunflowers’. Van Gogh’s persistence shows that self-doubt does not define our abilities; it is just part of our journey.
Break Projects into Small, Achievable Steps
When you are tackling a large project, it can feel overwhelming. The weight of everything you need to accomplish might trigger self-doubt and cause you to feel stuck. A great way to stay motivated is to break your project into smaller, manageable tasks.
For example, Leonardo da Vinci worked on the ‘Mona Lisa’ over several years, often leaving it unfinished for long periods. By focusing on each stage of the creative process, he allowed his ideas to evolve, contributing to the painting’s remarkable depth. This step-by-step approach can help you maintain motivation and allow your ideas to develop naturally.
Embrace Failure as Part of Growth
Failure is inevitable in art, but it does not define you as an artist. Instead of allowing mistakes to add to your self-doubt, view them as stepping stones toward mastery.
For instance, Henri Matisse, the French painter and sculptor, often experimented with different styles, faced criticism for his unconventional use of color. However, he accepted these challenges and learned from his failures, which eventually led to his creation of ‘Fauvism’, a revolutionary movement in modern art. Matisse’s willingness to push through doubt and accept mistakes changed his art and left a lasting impact on the world.
Surround Yourself with a Supportive Art Community
Art is often seen as a solitary endeavor, but having a network of fellow artists to share ideas, struggles, and victories with can be really encouraging. A strong support system reminds you that you are not alone on this journey.
Consider the ‘Impressionists’, a group of artists including Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir, who faced harsh criticism from the art establishment for their radical approach to painting. Rather than giving in to doubt, they supported one another and their collective strength helped them persevere. Surrounding yourself with other artists can provide reassurance, inspiration, and constructive feedback.
Celebrate the Process, Not Just the Outcome
The process of creation can be as rewarding as the final product. When you focus only on the result, you risk losing enthusiasm if things don’t turn out as expected. Instead, take time to enjoy the act of creating itself.
Jackson Pollock, known for his abstract expressionist ‘Drip Paintings’, was an artist who celebrated the process. Pollock’s work was about movement, spontaneity, and the physical act of painting. His famous ‘Drip’ technique, which involved splattering paint onto large canvases, was a way for him to engage himself fully in the act of creation. Pollock did not focus on precise details or perfection, he found joy in the flow of his work. Adopting this kind of process-oriented approach can keep you enthused, even when the outcome is uncertain.
Look to Your Past Work for Inspiration
When self-doubt arises, it is easy to forget your progress. Reflecting on previous work can remind you of how far you have come. Seeing the evolution of your skills and creativity can rekindle your passion and help you push through difficult times.
Pablo Picasso constantly reinvented his style throughout his career, moving from his early ‘Realist’ works to his later explorations in ‘Cubism’. Whenever he felt stagnant, he looked back at his previous work to understand how he had evolved and where he wanted to go next. His ability to reflect on his artistic journey allowed him to keep growing and experimenting with new forms. Revisiting your own artistic journey can remind you of your perseverance and growth.
By implementing these strategies, you can overcome self-doubt and stay focused on your creative journey. Remember, the path of creativity is not linear; it is filled with highs and lows, each contributing to your growth as an artist.