Artists can be some of the biggest procrastinators around. Believe me, I know! Because of some of our innate perfectionistic tendencies, we love to put things off indefinitely.
We tell ourselves all sorts of things couched in what seems like wisdom when in reality, it’s just just plan ole fear; fear of not “doing it right”, fear of “not being good enough” even fear of succeeding. In my own life and as I have the great pleasure of mentoring hundreds of artists through my books, conferences and artist mentoring group I’ve found 3 really common and really paralyzing lies that most artists struggle with, especially as they are getting ready to breakthrough into their next season of growth! Here they are…
- Big Fat Lie #1: It’s Just Not the Right Time
Artists are visionaries and therefore are really great starters. We can start just about anything! We can see the finished product, we know where we’re going and know how we want to feel at then end. The big roadblock that hits many artists however, is pushing through the times of difficulty, doubt and confusion. During those times, one of the big, paralyzing lies the enemy sows in our life is something like “Well Matt, that vision you had was great, but it’s really not the time for that…. just go back to life as usual and wait.” That can even sound really spiritual, too but here’s what I’ve found to be true. In God, it’s always the right time! The Kingdom lives inside of us and is available at all times, 24/7/365 and no matter where you are on the journey, you can always be moving toward your vision. Just because it might not be the season to see the FULLNESS of your vision manifested DOESN’T mean it’s not the season to develop your skills and foundation in preparation for the season of manifestation. If you don’t prepare then when it is the right time, you won’t be ready. - Big Fat Lie #2: I’m Just Not Ready
Perfectionism paralyzes. So many artists struggle with this lie that demands a certain level of expertise, skill or career attainment to start thriving as artists. The fact is, no matter where you are in your process of creative development, you can give, learn and thrive. You can give knowledge to those who aren’t where you are, you can learn from others who are further along than you and you can thrive where you are. Thinking “I’m just not ready” does nothing but stop you in your tracks whereas embracing the process of development encourages you to grow. So you’re not selling your work yet? Who cares! You can still be developing things like your artist statement, working out your unique selling proposition and creative voice. No matter where you are in the journey, having others on the journey with you in invaluable for encouragement and loving critique. - Big Fat Lie #3: Maybe I’m Not Really An Artist
Listen. The fact that you even struggle this thought proves you’re an artist. What is an artist? One who creates. Period. Selling or not selling your work doesn’t define your artistic identity or worth. However, your own beliefs about your creative identity are the only thing that can limit the movement of God in your artistic life. Remember, God’s Word teaches as you THINK so are you. He’ll never override your will and your own beliefs but will, at any time, be available and willing to co-labor with you to renew your mind to His Kingdom realities. There’s always room to grow and develop in your artistic and business practices but again, that doesn’t define you as an artist. It’s simply part of being on a journey of development.
Once you begin to understand your identity in Christ, solidify a Kingdom-oriented vision for your life and begin pursuing your artistic expression without these limitations, you’ll start to taste what the abundant life is all about. If you’re a believer in Jesus, you already have everything you need to thrive living inside of you. It’s called the Kingdom and it’s active and available to you now. All you have to do is start aligning with His divine design for your life.
Share your thoughts below! I’d love to hear where you are in your creative journey! Also, find out more about my Created To Thrive Artist Mentoring Program here.
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