If you're new to Art Journal Every Day, all the posts can be found here. Please read this post first. There is a flickr group for sharing right here. Remember, it's just ten minutes of nourishing your creative self every day! No need to finish anything or even like it.
One of the most common complaints I hear from people about art journaling is that they can't get their pages to look how they envision them in their heads. Well, I can't either. I'm sure somebody out there gets it "just right" every single time, but it's not me.
And yet, I love my pages.
My secret? I have learned to let go of my pre-conceptions of what it's supposed to be. And thusly, whatever it is, is awesome! Part of the reason ten-minutes-a-day works for me is because I have learned to let go of expectations. I just add another layer each time until my page decides what it wants to be.
Imagine that you have a date tonight. You've been thinking about this date. You have been planning this date. You've imagined all the ways it might go. What you will say, what you will do, what you will eat, what the other person will say and do and eat. This is a night that is going to make you happy. This is a night when you will laugh a lot. This is a night when you will have deep conversations. You will look perfect. Your date will behave perfectly….and so on. Well, that's a lot of pressure for a date. And if it doesn't go that way you'll probably come home quite disappointed.
Keep in mind, I'm not telling you to lower your expectations. I'm telling you to let go of your expectations. They are different statements.
- Lowering your expectations is about expecting (and accepting) less.
- Letting go of your expectations is about assuming nothing and embracing whatever may come.
I promise you that even if nothing about your art journaling changes, changing your attitude about it will make the process and the outcome much more pleasurable.
Here are some ways to help you let go of expectations:
- Narrow your focus. Instead of thinking of the end result, think about what you want to accomplish in the next few minutes. For example: I want to use this stencil.
- Follow the shiny ball. What does that mean? When something interesting flits across your line of sight or through your mind, follow it. Take that detour.
- Walk away. I often find that the pieces I hate the most are the ones where I was relentlessly pushing and pushing and pushing and overworking my art. Sometimes taking a break and coming back another day with fresh eyes is just the ticket.
- Do something to purposely ruin it. Rip it. Cover it with paint. Ruin it. Gasp. It works. It makes you less afraid. And forces you to let go of your expectations.
- Don't compare yourself to others. Maybe I should say that again: don't compare yourself to others. As Dr. Seuss has taught us, "No one is youer than you." Art journaling is not a competition.
- Make art every day. When making art becomes part of your daily routine it really takes the pressure off. Release that valve by taking ten minutes a day to do something artistic.
The next time you sit down to create, try not to think about where you're going. Focus on where you are right now and enjoy it! Whatever's next will come. Exist in the moment, being true to yourself. Kind of works for life too, don't you think?
Thanks for stopping by!
ETA: I forgot to post the linky list. If you're art journaled this week, please link us up. Please post a link that goes to a specific blog post or photo on flickr rather than a general url. Thanks!
So strange… but true – I just commented on yesterday’s blog how I love that you are the real you, true to yourself and here today that is your topic! I love how you expressed the difference between low and no expectations. Thanks, Julie! So much goodness in this blog.
So strange… but true – I just commented on yesterday’s blog how I love that you are the real you, true to yourself and here today that is your topic! I love how you expressed the difference between low and no expectations. Thanks, Julie! So much goodness in this blog.
So strange… but true – I just commented on yesterday’s blog how I love that you are the real you, true to yourself and here today that is your topic! I love how you expressed the difference between low and no expectations. Thanks, Julie! So much goodness in this blog.
So strange… but true – I just commented on yesterday’s blog how I love that you are the real you, true to yourself and here today that is your topic! I love how you expressed the difference between low and no expectations. Thanks, Julie! So much goodness in this blog.
So strange… but true – I just commented on yesterday’s blog how I love that you are the real you, true to yourself and here today that is your topic! I love how you expressed the difference between low and no expectations. Thanks, Julie! So much goodness in this blog.
I really needed to read this! I tend to over think everything and it takes the fun out of creating… Now I will just enjoy the process and be surprised when it’s done ♥
I really needed to read this! I tend to over think everything and it takes the fun out of creating… Now I will just enjoy the process and be surprised when it’s done ♥
I really needed to read this! I tend to over think everything and it takes the fun out of creating… Now I will just enjoy the process and be surprised when it’s done ♥
I really needed to read this! I tend to over think everything and it takes the fun out of creating… Now I will just enjoy the process and be surprised when it’s done ♥
I really needed to read this! I tend to over think everything and it takes the fun out of creating… Now I will just enjoy the process and be surprised when it’s done ♥
You are soooo right, Julie!!!
You are soooo right, Julie!!!
You are soooo right, Julie!!!
You are soooo right, Julie!!!
You are soooo right, Julie!!!
I particularly love “follow the shiny ball” 🙂
so many of my pages have ended up bearing no relation to what they started out as – gotta love the shiny ball 😀
I particularly love “follow the shiny ball” 🙂
so many of my pages have ended up bearing no relation to what they started out as – gotta love the shiny ball 😀
I particularly love “follow the shiny ball” 🙂
so many of my pages have ended up bearing no relation to what they started out as – gotta love the shiny ball 😀
I particularly love “follow the shiny ball” 🙂
so many of my pages have ended up bearing no relation to what they started out as – gotta love the shiny ball 😀
I particularly love “follow the shiny ball” 🙂
so many of my pages have ended up bearing no relation to what they started out as – gotta love the shiny ball 😀
Great piece of advice Julie. Love your colorful page
Great piece of advice Julie. Love your colorful page
Great piece of advice Julie. Love your colorful page
Great piece of advice Julie. Love your colorful page
Great piece of advice Julie. Love your colorful page
This is a AWESOME AND MUCH NEED TO HEAR POST!!!! I’ve finally realized this week at the no thinking of the end result and just play and have fun. GUESS WHAT, IT WORKED. I had a ball just playing with my paints and that lead to more and more painting and creative ideas to use again.
Love love what you said on expectations and it is sooo true. I need to remind myself of that often. Thanks for always keeping it real here and what works for you.
It was so funny to read about the going on a date part, it’s been 20 years since I’ve had to think aobut dating and forgot about all those thoughts you get. That was a perfect example!!!!!
Thanks Julie for all you do and share on your blog. We are lucky that you share so much with us.
Have a great weekend.
This is a AWESOME AND MUCH NEED TO HEAR POST!!!! I’ve finally realized this week at the no thinking of the end result and just play and have fun. GUESS WHAT, IT WORKED. I had a ball just playing with my paints and that lead to more and more painting and creative ideas to use again.
Love love what you said on expectations and it is sooo true. I need to remind myself of that often. Thanks for always keeping it real here and what works for you.
It was so funny to read about the going on a date part, it’s been 20 years since I’ve had to think aobut dating and forgot about all those thoughts you get. That was a perfect example!!!!!
Thanks Julie for all you do and share on your blog. We are lucky that you share so much with us.
Have a great weekend.
This is a AWESOME AND MUCH NEED TO HEAR POST!!!! I’ve finally realized this week at the no thinking of the end result and just play and have fun. GUESS WHAT, IT WORKED. I had a ball just playing with my paints and that lead to more and more painting and creative ideas to use again.
Love love what you said on expectations and it is sooo true. I need to remind myself of that often. Thanks for always keeping it real here and what works for you.
It was so funny to read about the going on a date part, it’s been 20 years since I’ve had to think aobut dating and forgot about all those thoughts you get. That was a perfect example!!!!!
Thanks Julie for all you do and share on your blog. We are lucky that you share so much with us.
Have a great weekend.
This is a AWESOME AND MUCH NEED TO HEAR POST!!!! I’ve finally realized this week at the no thinking of the end result and just play and have fun. GUESS WHAT, IT WORKED. I had a ball just playing with my paints and that lead to more and more painting and creative ideas to use again.
Love love what you said on expectations and it is sooo true. I need to remind myself of that often. Thanks for always keeping it real here and what works for you.
It was so funny to read about the going on a date part, it’s been 20 years since I’ve had to think aobut dating and forgot about all those thoughts you get. That was a perfect example!!!!!
Thanks Julie for all you do and share on your blog. We are lucky that you share so much with us.
Have a great weekend.
This is a AWESOME AND MUCH NEED TO HEAR POST!!!! I’ve finally realized this week at the no thinking of the end result and just play and have fun. GUESS WHAT, IT WORKED. I had a ball just playing with my paints and that lead to more and more painting and creative ideas to use again.
Love love what you said on expectations and it is sooo true. I need to remind myself of that often. Thanks for always keeping it real here and what works for you.
It was so funny to read about the going on a date part, it’s been 20 years since I’ve had to think aobut dating and forgot about all those thoughts you get. That was a perfect example!!!!!
Thanks Julie for all you do and share on your blog. We are lucky that you share so much with us.
Have a great weekend.
Sorry forgot to mention how awesome your page is, love love the black/white lettering. Will paint this in my journal to remind me!!!!
Sorry forgot to mention how awesome your page is, love love the black/white lettering. Will paint this in my journal to remind me!!!!
Sorry forgot to mention how awesome your page is, love love the black/white lettering. Will paint this in my journal to remind me!!!!
Sorry forgot to mention how awesome your page is, love love the black/white lettering. Will paint this in my journal to remind me!!!!
Sorry forgot to mention how awesome your page is, love love the black/white lettering. Will paint this in my journal to remind me!!!!
This is good and I love your pages!!! I learned a long time ago (for myself) not to plan a project to much in advance… just have a starting place and then start going… if I plan it all out, it never works for me!!!!
This is good and I love your pages!!! I learned a long time ago (for myself) not to plan a project to much in advance… just have a starting place and then start going… if I plan it all out, it never works for me!!!!
This is good and I love your pages!!! I learned a long time ago (for myself) not to plan a project to much in advance… just have a starting place and then start going… if I plan it all out, it never works for me!!!!
This is good and I love your pages!!! I learned a long time ago (for myself) not to plan a project to much in advance… just have a starting place and then start going… if I plan it all out, it never works for me!!!!
This is good and I love your pages!!! I learned a long time ago (for myself) not to plan a project to much in advance… just have a starting place and then start going… if I plan it all out, it never works for me!!!!
Love your tips today! Thanks, Mary
Love your tips today! Thanks, Mary
Love your tips today! Thanks, Mary
Love your tips today! Thanks, Mary
Love your tips today! Thanks, Mary
Thanks Julie…I need to read this over and over. I love your art…so daring and colorful…one can see that you DO “let go.”
Mary
Thanks Julie…I need to read this over and over. I love your art…so daring and colorful…one can see that you DO “let go.”
Mary
Thanks Julie…I need to read this over and over. I love your art…so daring and colorful…one can see that you DO “let go.”
Mary
Thanks Julie…I need to read this over and over. I love your art…so daring and colorful…one can see that you DO “let go.”
Mary
Thanks Julie…I need to read this over and over. I love your art…so daring and colorful…one can see that you DO “let go.”
Mary
Art journaling is not a competition.
I love it! LOL … and I have to admit, taking your 30 Days in Your Journal class is a PLEASURE! I am on day 25 .. and already so sad it is ending. I do find if I set aside 10 minutes, and ONLY 10 minutes, that I don’t have expectations for the page. And turns out that yes, I do really love them. The last spread was the girl’s face … and looking at it now, I remember that even 4 years ago I would have laughed at anyone saying, You are going to draw faces and then SHOW them on the internet! But four years ago I took a class that involved drawing faces, I learned the tricks … and then let go of the rules. I still don’t think I can draw but faces don’t scare me anymore. Just doing something frees something inside of you. Sorry, gotten off on a tangent, but as usual, your posts brings up some aha! moments for me! OH! I also really’ ruined’ that face by smudging graphite all over it. and you know what? She turned out sooo cool looking! So, mistakes are our friends.
Art journaling is not a competition.
I love it! LOL … and I have to admit, taking your 30 Days in Your Journal class is a PLEASURE! I am on day 25 .. and already so sad it is ending. I do find if I set aside 10 minutes, and ONLY 10 minutes, that I don’t have expectations for the page. And turns out that yes, I do really love them. The last spread was the girl’s face … and looking at it now, I remember that even 4 years ago I would have laughed at anyone saying, You are going to draw faces and then SHOW them on the internet! But four years ago I took a class that involved drawing faces, I learned the tricks … and then let go of the rules. I still don’t think I can draw but faces don’t scare me anymore. Just doing something frees something inside of you. Sorry, gotten off on a tangent, but as usual, your posts brings up some aha! moments for me! OH! I also really’ ruined’ that face by smudging graphite all over it. and you know what? She turned out sooo cool looking! So, mistakes are our friends.
Art journaling is not a competition.
I love it! LOL … and I have to admit, taking your 30 Days in Your Journal class is a PLEASURE! I am on day 25 .. and already so sad it is ending. I do find if I set aside 10 minutes, and ONLY 10 minutes, that I don’t have expectations for the page. And turns out that yes, I do really love them. The last spread was the girl’s face … and looking at it now, I remember that even 4 years ago I would have laughed at anyone saying, You are going to draw faces and then SHOW them on the internet! But four years ago I took a class that involved drawing faces, I learned the tricks … and then let go of the rules. I still don’t think I can draw but faces don’t scare me anymore. Just doing something frees something inside of you. Sorry, gotten off on a tangent, but as usual, your posts brings up some aha! moments for me! OH! I also really’ ruined’ that face by smudging graphite all over it. and you know what? She turned out sooo cool looking! So, mistakes are our friends.
Art journaling is not a competition.
I love it! LOL … and I have to admit, taking your 30 Days in Your Journal class is a PLEASURE! I am on day 25 .. and already so sad it is ending. I do find if I set aside 10 minutes, and ONLY 10 minutes, that I don’t have expectations for the page. And turns out that yes, I do really love them. The last spread was the girl’s face … and looking at it now, I remember that even 4 years ago I would have laughed at anyone saying, You are going to draw faces and then SHOW them on the internet! But four years ago I took a class that involved drawing faces, I learned the tricks … and then let go of the rules. I still don’t think I can draw but faces don’t scare me anymore. Just doing something frees something inside of you. Sorry, gotten off on a tangent, but as usual, your posts brings up some aha! moments for me! OH! I also really’ ruined’ that face by smudging graphite all over it. and you know what? She turned out sooo cool looking! So, mistakes are our friends.
Art journaling is not a competition.
I love it! LOL … and I have to admit, taking your 30 Days in Your Journal class is a PLEASURE! I am on day 25 .. and already so sad it is ending. I do find if I set aside 10 minutes, and ONLY 10 minutes, that I don’t have expectations for the page. And turns out that yes, I do really love them. The last spread was the girl’s face … and looking at it now, I remember that even 4 years ago I would have laughed at anyone saying, You are going to draw faces and then SHOW them on the internet! But four years ago I took a class that involved drawing faces, I learned the tricks … and then let go of the rules. I still don’t think I can draw but faces don’t scare me anymore. Just doing something frees something inside of you. Sorry, gotten off on a tangent, but as usual, your posts brings up some aha! moments for me! OH! I also really’ ruined’ that face by smudging graphite all over it. and you know what? She turned out sooo cool looking! So, mistakes are our friends.
Perfect timing for me on this and truer words have not been spoken…let go of expectations and the wonder of art/life will shine through! Thanks Julie.
Perfect timing for me on this and truer words have not been spoken…let go of expectations and the wonder of art/life will shine through! Thanks Julie.
Perfect timing for me on this and truer words have not been spoken…let go of expectations and the wonder of art/life will shine through! Thanks Julie.
Perfect timing for me on this and truer words have not been spoken…let go of expectations and the wonder of art/life will shine through! Thanks Julie.
Perfect timing for me on this and truer words have not been spoken…let go of expectations and the wonder of art/life will shine through! Thanks Julie.
I love your thoughts today. It freeing to let go of expections. It reminds me of your journal prompts from last week, especially the “use 25 strips of tape”. I began quite symmeterically, but at about the 7th piece I said screw this, and just began layering the pieces all over the page. I realized it didn’t matter where I put them (but if you had said 6 instead of 25 I would not have reach my “let it go point”). It was a liberating moment for me! Thank you!!
I love your thoughts today. It freeing to let go of expections. It reminds me of your journal prompts from last week, especially the “use 25 strips of tape”. I began quite symmeterically, but at about the 7th piece I said screw this, and just began layering the pieces all over the page. I realized it didn’t matter where I put them (but if you had said 6 instead of 25 I would not have reach my “let it go point”). It was a liberating moment for me! Thank you!!
I love your thoughts today. It freeing to let go of expections. It reminds me of your journal prompts from last week, especially the “use 25 strips of tape”. I began quite symmeterically, but at about the 7th piece I said screw this, and just began layering the pieces all over the page. I realized it didn’t matter where I put them (but if you had said 6 instead of 25 I would not have reach my “let it go point”). It was a liberating moment for me! Thank you!!
I love your thoughts today. It freeing to let go of expections. It reminds me of your journal prompts from last week, especially the “use 25 strips of tape”. I began quite symmeterically, but at about the 7th piece I said screw this, and just began layering the pieces all over the page. I realized it didn’t matter where I put them (but if you had said 6 instead of 25 I would not have reach my “let it go point”). It was a liberating moment for me! Thank you!!
I love your thoughts today. It freeing to let go of expections. It reminds me of your journal prompts from last week, especially the “use 25 strips of tape”. I began quite symmeterically, but at about the 7th piece I said screw this, and just began layering the pieces all over the page. I realized it didn’t matter where I put them (but if you had said 6 instead of 25 I would not have reach my “let it go point”). It was a liberating moment for me! Thank you!!
This really hit home with me. Yesterday I decided I had to leave my comfort zone and I think today I will have more fun. Will also leave the expectations so thanks so much.
Have enjoyed your art journaling.
This really hit home with me. Yesterday I decided I had to leave my comfort zone and I think today I will have more fun. Will also leave the expectations so thanks so much.
Have enjoyed your art journaling.
This really hit home with me. Yesterday I decided I had to leave my comfort zone and I think today I will have more fun. Will also leave the expectations so thanks so much.
Have enjoyed your art journaling.
This really hit home with me. Yesterday I decided I had to leave my comfort zone and I think today I will have more fun. Will also leave the expectations so thanks so much.
Have enjoyed your art journaling.
This really hit home with me. Yesterday I decided I had to leave my comfort zone and I think today I will have more fun. Will also leave the expectations so thanks so much.
Have enjoyed your art journaling.
Julie,
You hit it bang on the nose. I did a little art session with one of my best friends yesterday so this article is very helpful.
I appreciate all the articles that you post because they challenge me to do some work practically every day even thought I don’t use a journal.
Thank you, Barbara
Julie,
You hit it bang on the nose. I did a little art session with one of my best friends yesterday so this article is very helpful.
I appreciate all the articles that you post because they challenge me to do some work practically every day even thought I don’t use a journal.
Thank you, Barbara
Julie,
You hit it bang on the nose. I did a little art session with one of my best friends yesterday so this article is very helpful.
I appreciate all the articles that you post because they challenge me to do some work practically every day even thought I don’t use a journal.
Thank you, Barbara
Julie,
You hit it bang on the nose. I did a little art session with one of my best friends yesterday so this article is very helpful.
I appreciate all the articles that you post because they challenge me to do some work practically every day even thought I don’t use a journal.
Thank you, Barbara
Julie,
You hit it bang on the nose. I did a little art session with one of my best friends yesterday so this article is very helpful.
I appreciate all the articles that you post because they challenge me to do some work practically every day even thought I don’t use a journal.
Thank you, Barbara
Such great advice. Love these words of wisdom and encouragement!
Such great advice. Love these words of wisdom and encouragement!
Such great advice. Love these words of wisdom and encouragement!
Such great advice. Love these words of wisdom and encouragement!
Such great advice. Love these words of wisdom and encouragement!
I was looking for the “Like” button for your comment! What a great example!
I was looking for the “Like” button for your comment! What a great example!
I was looking for the “Like” button for your comment! What a great example!
I was looking for the “Like” button for your comment! What a great example!
I was looking for the “Like” button for your comment! What a great example!
Totally agree. And how beautiful colours on your page. I love it!
Totally agree. And how beautiful colours on your page. I love it!
Totally agree. And how beautiful colours on your page. I love it!
Totally agree. And how beautiful colours on your page. I love it!
Totally agree. And how beautiful colours on your page. I love it!
Ruin it! Is my number one go-to rule when I’m stumped on where to go with a page or project. It absolutely horrifies my family but I always end up with something I love.
It’s a great, terrifying technique.
Ruin it! Is my number one go-to rule when I’m stumped on where to go with a page or project. It absolutely horrifies my family but I always end up with something I love.
It’s a great, terrifying technique.
Ruin it! Is my number one go-to rule when I’m stumped on where to go with a page or project. It absolutely horrifies my family but I always end up with something I love.
It’s a great, terrifying technique.
Ruin it! Is my number one go-to rule when I’m stumped on where to go with a page or project. It absolutely horrifies my family but I always end up with something I love.
It’s a great, terrifying technique.
Ruin it! Is my number one go-to rule when I’m stumped on where to go with a page or project. It absolutely horrifies my family but I always end up with something I love.
It’s a great, terrifying technique.
I love that your posts include both wisdom and ways to put said wisdom into action. Thank you!
I love that your posts include both wisdom and ways to put said wisdom into action. Thank you!
I love that your posts include both wisdom and ways to put said wisdom into action. Thank you!
I love that your posts include both wisdom and ways to put said wisdom into action. Thank you!
I love that your posts include both wisdom and ways to put said wisdom into action. Thank you!
This is so true – those expectations are a real obstacle – and it’s an obstacle we create ourselves so we can remove it ourselves too!
This is so true – those expectations are a real obstacle – and it’s an obstacle we create ourselves so we can remove it ourselves too!
This is so true – those expectations are a real obstacle – and it’s an obstacle we create ourselves so we can remove it ourselves too!
This is so true – those expectations are a real obstacle – and it’s an obstacle we create ourselves so we can remove it ourselves too!
This is so true – those expectations are a real obstacle – and it’s an obstacle we create ourselves so we can remove it ourselves too!
I love this post. Definitely things that I need to remember. Lately I seem frozen. I’ve been learning tons of new techniques, taking classes, etc.. and for some reason I can’t seem to get started creating something on my own. Fear of not doing it “right” I guess. I definitely need to take your words to heart and let go of expectations and just go for it.
I love this post. Definitely things that I need to remember. Lately I seem frozen. I’ve been learning tons of new techniques, taking classes, etc.. and for some reason I can’t seem to get started creating something on my own. Fear of not doing it “right” I guess. I definitely need to take your words to heart and let go of expectations and just go for it.
I love this post. Definitely things that I need to remember. Lately I seem frozen. I’ve been learning tons of new techniques, taking classes, etc.. and for some reason I can’t seem to get started creating something on my own. Fear of not doing it “right” I guess. I definitely need to take your words to heart and let go of expectations and just go for it.
I love this post. Definitely things that I need to remember. Lately I seem frozen. I’ve been learning tons of new techniques, taking classes, etc.. and for some reason I can’t seem to get started creating something on my own. Fear of not doing it “right” I guess. I definitely need to take your words to heart and let go of expectations and just go for it.
I love this post. Definitely things that I need to remember. Lately I seem frozen. I’ve been learning tons of new techniques, taking classes, etc.. and for some reason I can’t seem to get started creating something on my own. Fear of not doing it “right” I guess. I definitely need to take your words to heart and let go of expectations and just go for it.
No one could have said it better! It is all about doing the art! Enjoying the process without expectations!
Thank you Julie!
No one could have said it better! It is all about doing the art! Enjoying the process without expectations!
Thank you Julie!
No one could have said it better! It is all about doing the art! Enjoying the process without expectations!
Thank you Julie!
No one could have said it better! It is all about doing the art! Enjoying the process without expectations!
Thank you Julie!
No one could have said it better! It is all about doing the art! Enjoying the process without expectations!
Thank you Julie!
thanks for your beatiful post and your great words, Jiuie!
thanks for your beatiful post and your great words, Jiuie!
thanks for your beatiful post and your great words, Jiuie!
thanks for your beatiful post and your great words, Jiuie!
thanks for your beatiful post and your great words, Jiuie!
Thanks for the reminders to relax and have fun — it’s too easy to think of art as a competition (even if only with yourself). I especially like the suggestion to follow the shiny ball. I tend to stick with things even when they aren’t working and would be so much more “productive” if I chase new ideas when they are fresh. Great post, as usual!
Thanks for the reminders to relax and have fun — it’s too easy to think of art as a competition (even if only with yourself). I especially like the suggestion to follow the shiny ball. I tend to stick with things even when they aren’t working and would be so much more “productive” if I chase new ideas when they are fresh. Great post, as usual!
Thanks for the reminders to relax and have fun — it’s too easy to think of art as a competition (even if only with yourself). I especially like the suggestion to follow the shiny ball. I tend to stick with things even when they aren’t working and would be so much more “productive” if I chase new ideas when they are fresh. Great post, as usual!
Thanks for the reminders to relax and have fun — it’s too easy to think of art as a competition (even if only with yourself). I especially like the suggestion to follow the shiny ball. I tend to stick with things even when they aren’t working and would be so much more “productive” if I chase new ideas when they are fresh. Great post, as usual!
Thanks for the reminders to relax and have fun — it’s too easy to think of art as a competition (even if only with yourself). I especially like the suggestion to follow the shiny ball. I tend to stick with things even when they aren’t working and would be so much more “productive” if I chase new ideas when they are fresh. Great post, as usual!
I’m panting to keep up – LOVE your blog! Everyday I love your blog! I am in silly-glee mode and have lots of studio time coming up!
I’m panting to keep up – LOVE your blog! Everyday I love your blog! I am in silly-glee mode and have lots of studio time coming up!
I’m panting to keep up – LOVE your blog! Everyday I love your blog! I am in silly-glee mode and have lots of studio time coming up!
I’m panting to keep up – LOVE your blog! Everyday I love your blog! I am in silly-glee mode and have lots of studio time coming up!
I’m panting to keep up – LOVE your blog! Everyday I love your blog! I am in silly-glee mode and have lots of studio time coming up!
Oh my gosh, I was actually able to follow the “linky” directions and upload my image with a link to the specific blog post. This is a real first for me. Thank you, Julie, for this opportunity to post my journal spread in the AJED pages. I’m honored.
BTW, I do love using your stencils. I finally followed your directions and used gesso with a pallete knife and got great results. I’m having fun with art journaling.
Oh my gosh, I was actually able to follow the “linky” directions and upload my image with a link to the specific blog post. This is a real first for me. Thank you, Julie, for this opportunity to post my journal spread in the AJED pages. I’m honored.
BTW, I do love using your stencils. I finally followed your directions and used gesso with a pallete knife and got great results. I’m having fun with art journaling.
Oh my gosh, I was actually able to follow the “linky” directions and upload my image with a link to the specific blog post. This is a real first for me. Thank you, Julie, for this opportunity to post my journal spread in the AJED pages. I’m honored.
BTW, I do love using your stencils. I finally followed your directions and used gesso with a pallete knife and got great results. I’m having fun with art journaling.
Oh my gosh, I was actually able to follow the “linky” directions and upload my image with a link to the specific blog post. This is a real first for me. Thank you, Julie, for this opportunity to post my journal spread in the AJED pages. I’m honored.
BTW, I do love using your stencils. I finally followed your directions and used gesso with a pallete knife and got great results. I’m having fun with art journaling.
Oh my gosh, I was actually able to follow the “linky” directions and upload my image with a link to the specific blog post. This is a real first for me. Thank you, Julie, for this opportunity to post my journal spread in the AJED pages. I’m honored.
BTW, I do love using your stencils. I finally followed your directions and used gesso with a pallete knife and got great results. I’m having fun with art journaling.
This post has set the tone for my day, strike that, my year. Last year was really a challenging business year for me. Your words about expectations have just freed me so that I now GET IT. I’ve heard all of this before; but your words hit me like a lightening bolt. I now know that I can’t predict what will happen and worrying myself to death is not going to change anything. I just need to prepare myself as best I can, assume nothing and stop trying to fight what comes, embrace it. Thank you for giving me my “ah-ha moment”. I have a big trade show next month. I’ll carry this in my wallet and read it every morning to start my day.
This post has set the tone for my day, strike that, my year. Last year was really a challenging business year for me. Your words about expectations have just freed me so that I now GET IT. I’ve heard all of this before; but your words hit me like a lightening bolt. I now know that I can’t predict what will happen and worrying myself to death is not going to change anything. I just need to prepare myself as best I can, assume nothing and stop trying to fight what comes, embrace it. Thank you for giving me my “ah-ha moment”. I have a big trade show next month. I’ll carry this in my wallet and read it every morning to start my day.
This post has set the tone for my day, strike that, my year. Last year was really a challenging business year for me. Your words about expectations have just freed me so that I now GET IT. I’ve heard all of this before; but your words hit me like a lightening bolt. I now know that I can’t predict what will happen and worrying myself to death is not going to change anything. I just need to prepare myself as best I can, assume nothing and stop trying to fight what comes, embrace it. Thank you for giving me my “ah-ha moment”. I have a big trade show next month. I’ll carry this in my wallet and read it every morning to start my day.
This post has set the tone for my day, strike that, my year. Last year was really a challenging business year for me. Your words about expectations have just freed me so that I now GET IT. I’ve heard all of this before; but your words hit me like a lightening bolt. I now know that I can’t predict what will happen and worrying myself to death is not going to change anything. I just need to prepare myself as best I can, assume nothing and stop trying to fight what comes, embrace it. Thank you for giving me my “ah-ha moment”. I have a big trade show next month. I’ll carry this in my wallet and read it every morning to start my day.
This post has set the tone for my day, strike that, my year. Last year was really a challenging business year for me. Your words about expectations have just freed me so that I now GET IT. I’ve heard all of this before; but your words hit me like a lightening bolt. I now know that I can’t predict what will happen and worrying myself to death is not going to change anything. I just need to prepare myself as best I can, assume nothing and stop trying to fight what comes, embrace it. Thank you for giving me my “ah-ha moment”. I have a big trade show next month. I’ll carry this in my wallet and read it every morning to start my day.
really great advice -definitely words of wisdom and worth remebering-thank you!
really great advice -definitely words of wisdom and worth remebering-thank you!
really great advice -definitely words of wisdom and worth remebering-thank you!
really great advice -definitely words of wisdom and worth remebering-thank you!
really great advice -definitely words of wisdom and worth remebering-thank you!
I like your distinction between “lowering” expectations and “letting go” of expectations. Very freeing to let go of expectations…and not easy for some! I’ve noticed that, especially with drawing, I will think that something I have done is terrible, awful, humiliating….and then I come back to it later, and it really isn’t half bad! Walking away for awhile can definitely work magic.
I like your distinction between “lowering” expectations and “letting go” of expectations. Very freeing to let go of expectations…and not easy for some! I’ve noticed that, especially with drawing, I will think that something I have done is terrible, awful, humiliating….and then I come back to it later, and it really isn’t half bad! Walking away for awhile can definitely work magic.
I like your distinction between “lowering” expectations and “letting go” of expectations. Very freeing to let go of expectations…and not easy for some! I’ve noticed that, especially with drawing, I will think that something I have done is terrible, awful, humiliating….and then I come back to it later, and it really isn’t half bad! Walking away for awhile can definitely work magic.
I like your distinction between “lowering” expectations and “letting go” of expectations. Very freeing to let go of expectations…and not easy for some! I’ve noticed that, especially with drawing, I will think that something I have done is terrible, awful, humiliating….and then I come back to it later, and it really isn’t half bad! Walking away for awhile can definitely work magic.
I like your distinction between “lowering” expectations and “letting go” of expectations. Very freeing to let go of expectations…and not easy for some! I’ve noticed that, especially with drawing, I will think that something I have done is terrible, awful, humiliating….and then I come back to it later, and it really isn’t half bad! Walking away for awhile can definitely work magic.
A wise friend of mine once said “Comparing yourself to others is a form of self-abuse”. True.
I liked your differentiation of “let go” vs. “lower”; something to use as a yardstick.
I’m thoroughly enjoying 30 Days; it’s so helpful to have a friendly guide. Already my head is swimming with new ideas for backgrounds.
Thanks for all you do,
A wise friend of mine once said “Comparing yourself to others is a form of self-abuse”. True.
I liked your differentiation of “let go” vs. “lower”; something to use as a yardstick.
I’m thoroughly enjoying 30 Days; it’s so helpful to have a friendly guide. Already my head is swimming with new ideas for backgrounds.
Thanks for all you do,
A wise friend of mine once said “Comparing yourself to others is a form of self-abuse”. True.
I liked your differentiation of “let go” vs. “lower”; something to use as a yardstick.
I’m thoroughly enjoying 30 Days; it’s so helpful to have a friendly guide. Already my head is swimming with new ideas for backgrounds.
Thanks for all you do,
A wise friend of mine once said “Comparing yourself to others is a form of self-abuse”. True.
I liked your differentiation of “let go” vs. “lower”; something to use as a yardstick.
I’m thoroughly enjoying 30 Days; it’s so helpful to have a friendly guide. Already my head is swimming with new ideas for backgrounds.
Thanks for all you do,
A wise friend of mine once said “Comparing yourself to others is a form of self-abuse”. True.
I liked your differentiation of “let go” vs. “lower”; something to use as a yardstick.
I’m thoroughly enjoying 30 Days; it’s so helpful to have a friendly guide. Already my head is swimming with new ideas for backgrounds.
Thanks for all you do,
When I follow that lovely shiny ball wonderful fun happens and I usually love the page too!
When I follow that lovely shiny ball wonderful fun happens and I usually love the page too!
When I follow that lovely shiny ball wonderful fun happens and I usually love the page too!
When I follow that lovely shiny ball wonderful fun happens and I usually love the page too!
When I follow that lovely shiny ball wonderful fun happens and I usually love the page too!
Lovely article!!! Something to always keep in mind! Thanks!
Lovely article!!! Something to always keep in mind! Thanks!
Lovely article!!! Something to always keep in mind! Thanks!
Lovely article!!! Something to always keep in mind! Thanks!
Lovely article!!! Something to always keep in mind! Thanks!