Ever find yourself staring at your art supplies, wanting to create but feeling completely stuck? Maybe it’s the fear of imperfection, the overwhelm of a blank canvas, or just not knowing where to start.
Trust me, you’re not alone.
Starting is often the hardest part of the creative process—but it doesn’t have to be.
Here’s a simple mindset shift and a few practical tips to help you overcome that stuck feeling and get back to creating with joy.
1. Why Starting Feels So Hard
The moment before you begin can feel heavy.
Thoughts like, “What if it doesn’t turn out?” or “I don’t even know what I want to make,” can paralyze us.
Often, this fear comes from a desire for perfection or the pressure to create something “worthwhile.”
But here’s the truth: your first mark doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to exist.
2. Let Go of the Fear of Imperfection
Art is not about perfection; it’s about expression.
Whether you’re working on a mixed media piece, a landscape, or an abstract, the process is where the magic happens.
Every stroke, layer, and texture tells a story, even if it feels messy or unfinished.
Action Tip:
Start with the mindset, “I’m just playing today.”
Remove the pressure to create a masterpiece and allow yourself to experiment freely.
3. Pull Out Your Supplies and Begin
Sometimes, the hardest part is simply gathering your tools.
Once the supplies are in front of you, creativity often begins to flow naturally.
Try This:
- Set a timer for 10 minutes and promise yourself you’ll just play.
- Use materials you don’t mind “messing up,” like scrap paper or old supplies.
- Experiment with something new, like mixing collage papers or layering unexpected textures.
4. Embrace the Messy Middle
The creative process isn’t linear.
It’s full of trial and error, happy accidents, and moments of doubt.
But every mark you make is a step forward, teaching you something new about your art and yourself.
Remember: The mess is where growth happens. The more you embrace it, the more you’ll find joy in the journey.
5. Celebrate the Process, Not Just the Outcome
Art isn’t just about the final piece; it’s about how it makes you feel while creating it.
Did you have fun? Did you discover something new?
Those moments are what matter most.
Final Tip:
Keep a small notebook nearby to jot down thoughts or insights during your creative sessions. Over time, you’ll notice how much you’re growing and evolving as an artist.
Conclusion: Your Next Step
If you’re feeling stuck, take this as a gentle reminder: just start.
Pull out your supplies, let go of perfection, and allow yourself to play. Every mark you make is a step closer to discovering your unique creative voice.
And if you’re looking for inspiration, I’d love for you to check out my Paper Buttons class, where I combine mixed media techniques to create playful, layered art. You can find it here.
What’s the first thing you’ll create today? Let me know—I’d love to hear about your process.
