Written by Today, we will discuss a topic that’s the bane of many creatives: procrastination. It’s a word that often carries a negative connotation, but here’s the truth – procrastinating is an essential part of the creative process.
I’ve had countless people approach me over the years, expressing guilt and frustration because they haven’t created art recently. Sometimes it’s just a week, sometimes it turns into a month, and, in some cases, even years go by without picking up a paintbrush or sculpting tool. This sense of unproductivity can be disheartening, but it’s essential to understand that it’s okay to take a break from your creative endeavors.
Life happens, and there are moments when you need to step away from your art to deal with personal matters, work, or other responsibilities. The key to maintaining a positive relationship with your creativity is understanding that it’s perfectly okay to set your artwork aside for a while.
Now, I’m a firm believer in creating something daily, even if it’s just a small sketch or a moment spent pondering creative ideas. However, it’s vital to remember that you don’t have to be constantly painting, sculpting, or creating elaborate masterpieces. The real enemy here isn’t the absence of art in your life; it’s the way you talk to yourself when you’re not creating.
In a world dominated by the hustle culture, where we’re constantly told to work, work, and work some more, it’s easy to fall into the trap of feeling like you must always be creating. But the truth is, this mentality isn’t sustainable. It’s crucial to recognize that you have the power to decide when and how you engage with your art.
If you find yourself in a procrastination phase, don’t berate yourself. Give yourself permission to take a day off, a week off, or even longer if you need it. It’s okay to step back, take a walk, read a book, binge-watch Netflix, or simply do anything that helps you recharge. Sometimes, life throws challenges at us, and it’s crucial to prioritize self-care and healing.
I often find that people seek validation or permission to take a break from their art, but the truth is, you don’t need anyone’s approval. You are the master of your artistic journey. You decide when it’s time to create or take a step back.
You set your boundaries, and you get to choose what’s best for you at any given moment. Whether you want to dive headfirst into your studio, take a step back, or simply want to be left alone – it’s all okay.
If you’re struggling to reignite your creative spark, try “Fa-Chunking.” Start with a small commitment, maybe just five minutes of working on your art. If you don’t feel it after those five minutes, give yourself permission to step away. You can always try again tomorrow or whenever it feels right.
So, let’s reframe how we think about procrastination. It’s not a dirty word. It’s a natural part of the creative process. And it’s vital to remember that you can’t and shouldn’t be “on” all the time. Embrace your creative breaks, acknowledge your priorities, and know that your creativity will always be there, waiting for your return.
You are the artist, the creator, and the curator of your own creative journey. So, go ahead and procrastinate when you need to, and remember, it’s all part of the process.
Stay creative, even when it means not stepping into the studio. Embrace your creativity on your own terms, and go out there and be your amazing self. You have my complete and utter permission to do just that. Adios! Until next week!
Great podcast – thanks for sharing your insights. Working on a long-form project like this illustrated book has really curtailed much of my procrastination. I’m in year 2 of this work, and although I’ve had to take a few days off for health concerns (cataract surgeries) I return to my work with even greater enthusiasm as soon as I can when I’ve been separated from it. I really want to have this book published prior to Christmas, and I think this goal also pushes me forward. That said, I do not rely on my art for my income and no longer engage in any social media, so there’s a whole world of performance pressures I do not have to deal with. I am grateful every day for that blessing. Sending my ((hugs)) to you and Klee.
Thanks for your wisdom. It’s funny how I feel like I want permission to procrastinate or gestate AND other times I want permission to spend lots of time in the studio creating without outside distractions. It’s from that same soft place inside that needs me to say…You are enough, you can, you’ll be ok, you’ll figure it out…When there is no road map and you’re in the wilderness you have to choose direction and just step into it whether that includes resting or moving through.
Yes!!!