3 Reasons Some Artists will Never Experience Breakthrough...

5/27/2017

Let me be honest. As much as I would love every artist to really start thriving in their life, art, finances and spiritual life, that's just not realistic for some... and it hurts me to say because I'm an eternal optimist and believe deeply in the divine calling of artists to do big things! It's not that I don't believe it's possible, I do! I completely, 100% believe breakthrough is possible in the life of every artist but what I know more than possibility is the fact that thriving as an artist and experiencing breakthrough into that life is a choice. A personal choice that can only be made by a the artist.

Sometimes, I wish it wasn't the case but it is. You either choose to thrive or you choose to live life the way you've lived it and get what you've always gotten. As I think back on tons of emails and conversations with artists, I've heard these three reasons over and over and over from phrased a little differently for each person of course to fit their "unique" situation. As we say in the country, "You can't put lipstick on a pig". An excuse is an excuse and these are 3 of the biggest. Here we go:

Reason #1: They Let Immediate Pressure Overshadow Longterm Success
One of the hardest lessons I had to learn in my own journey is the lesson of delayed gratification. Like a lot of artists, I was used to seeing things my way, getting things my way and choosing immediate payoff instead of learning to delay pleasure for a greater reward later on.

One of the biggest areas this shows up with artists is with money. If you have it, you probably tend to spend it. And when you don't have it, you freak out, get fearful and go into conservation mode thinking that will somehow solve the problem. The problem is not lack of money, it's a lack of understanding how to get it, steward it and grow it. When fear reigns, nobody wins. The rollercoaster cycle will continue.

Let me give you a couple of examples: Take the artist who signs up for a conference, class or seminar only to call back a week or a month later freaking out that "they have to have a refund" or "I just can't afford it now because something came up." Do things come up? Sure, but the deeper concern is that you've chosen to put out an immediate fire for immediate payoff rather than realizing how much you could gain in the short and long term by taking advantage of the opportunity you've now just canceled. It's like when I was in the marketing business years ago. Short-sighted businesses were the first to cancel their marketing campaigns when the economy bobbled where as mature businesses increased marketing during those times because they realized the long-term importance of that investment.

Or take the artist who wants to paint, sculpt, play or weave like the pros but just isn't willing to take classes, learn from others or put in the practice it takes to develop mastery. We have a saying for that down south...."You can wish in one hand and spit in another and see which one fills up faster."

You can overcome this hurdle by setting clear vision for your life and making decisions on a daily basis that lead you toward your long-term goals, not just short term gains.
Reason #2: They Choose to Let Other Things Steal Their Focus
Jesus said "In this life, you will have trouble..." There's always going to be some situation, person or combination of both that will compete for your time, resources and attention. People who thrive in their life learn to prioritize themselves first in balance with their family and work relationships. Otherwise, you end up putting out everyone else's fires, having nothing left for yourself. These are the folks who show up to conferences and webinars and workshops exhausted, confused and longing for God to show up and somehow fix everything so they can experience breakthrough in their life. Listen, this is not an issue of God not showing up but rather a lack of prioritizing in life which leads to everything being out of balance.

These same folks are some of the first to attach a spiritual reason for their lack of focus because let's face it... it's just easier than taking responsibility. For many, it's easier to believe that it's just not in God's plan for your life rather than learning how to focus and stay on course regardless of what's happening around you.

Someone wise once said "If everything is a priority, then nothing is a priority." You get to choose and the bottom line is many artists never make that choice. They let everyone else dictate and consequently suffer under the guise of being a caring parent, loyal employee, church servant or attentive friend.

You can overcome this hurdle in your life by setting clear priorities that align with your unique design and vision as an artist. Make sure everyone in your life knows and respects those priorities as you start shaping the life you were meant to live!
Reason #3: They Stop Too Early, Believing This Isn't Really Their Time
This reason is sort of a combination of the two earlier reasons. This artist starts down the road with good intentions but doesn't stay on track. It takes work, yes, but more than that, it takes interaction and community. It takes relationship to keep each one of us focused, energized and moving in the right direction over the long haul.

When an artist doesn't stay engaged in the process, the enemy is right there to sow lies like "It's not really your time" or "This is just not the season for you" or maybe "It's not supposed to be this hard". Believing a lie becomes easier than asking for help or pushing through difficulties and boom! Another one bites the dust. Another dream left on the side of the road only to be remembered 2 years later when their heart is awakened to the possibility again and the whole scenario begins again.

You can overcome this hurdle by renewing your mind to the truth of God's Word regarding who you are, what you have, what you can do and the vision for your life. Once you understand who you are in Christ and your unique design as an artist, you start to realize the Kingdom is available and active to you any time. It's always time to start stepping into your best life in God!

Some of you may be reading this right now saying "Wow Matt, this just got real..." Yes, it did and I love you too much to sugarcoat things. God's invested too much in each one of us to let momentary troubles and pressures take our focus from the goal He's set before us.

I also know this to be true: people always... ALWAYS do what they want to do. If you want something bad enough, you'll find a way to see it happen. The simple fact is many people like the idea of breakthrough and thriving but aren't willing to lean into the process.

To those that do lean into the process, who keep going even when things get difficult and who prioritize their life the align with their dreams and design, the sweet feelings of knowing they held on, leaned into God's grace and trusted in the face of fear will usher them into reaping the rewards of the process. To them it will be said "Well done good and faithful servant. You've been faithful over little, not I will make you ruler over much."

(PS... If that's you right now, the kind of artist that is willing to set a course and see it through in the context of community with other artists and me as your mentor (even if you've failed at this before), then I'd love for you to consider my Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program. I can help you make this year be your breakthrough year. I can help you make this year the year of no more excuses... the year you start thriving!)

62 Comments

Shirley LIn KInoshita link

5/28/2017 06:32:00 am

Thanks for encouragement and advice. Helps me to keep focused and keep on keeping on.

BTW, are you using Weebly Blog app? I just created my website and don't know quite how to use the blog. Instead, I use free wordpress.com

Peace & Blessings, Shirley

Cheryl link

6/6/2017 04:50:22 pm

Thank you Matt. I am on this journey with you discovering who I am as an artist in Christ. Really loving this group. Thanks

Felecia Pokallus link

9/28/2017 09:36:12 am

Your words ring true and really reveals the choice is in the artist hands.
My time currently is dedicated to my art 50% of my time. This is frustrating me, I can't seem to get in the groove I've experienced several times with my paintings.. I feel like I'd feel selfish if I tried to get more percentage of time from my marriage and the chores I feel required to do. Sometimes I want to run away for a week to feel emerged 100% in my art, but I fear 1 week would not be enough. So, instead I don't change... I know, it's my choice.

Paula Parkison

5/28/2017 08:44:30 pm

I have to laugh...I was definitely one of the ones who almost immediately wanted a refund! But let me tell you my friend, I have learned more in 3 weeks about my art business (and myself) than I have in the last 3 years! THANK YOU!!!! Loved this article.

Linda Tully link

5/29/2017 06:41:29 am

I appreciate your ability to be blunt but truthful. I was definitely a "2" - everything and everyone else had priority in my life, but God has affirmed loudly and clearly to me, and also to others in my life, that my calling as an artist is REAL and it's time to move in that truth. I am excited to be part of this group and look forward to the relationships God will refine for me through this group of fellow creatives.

Cecilia Bramhall

6/6/2017 12:08:05 pm

I have been guilty of all three at one time or another. My biggest hurdle right now is prioritizing my time, making my art what's important. No more! I want off that merry-go-round and into the life God has for me! So glad to be a part of your Mentoring program. Thank you for the tough love!

Janet "Jan" Thorp

6/6/2017 12:52:53 pm

I would say this is a very good article & I believe I am guilty of all three, especially #2. I am desperately holding on to moving forward with being the artist God created in me. This will be a fight, I feel it. I also feel that my retirement years will be my time of moving more & more into creating "excellent" art. Learning more now... (I am 62 now.)

Pray with me, please. I am going into battle on this. Thank you for your mentoring & support. Every time I start to make an excuse or explain why, I will stop & refocus, again.

Linda

6/6/2017 04:13:44 pm

Matt,
Thank you for your honesty in this insightful article! Excellent advice!
I've allowed all three reasons you listed to keep me at a "beginners level" in exploring art. However, six weeks ago I joined your "Created to Thrive Mentoring Community" . I feel like I'm experiencing a break from the old habits. The tools and resources you have provided are amazing! I'm leaning into the process by taking classes, practicing hard, renewing my mind daily, thinking long term, setting clear priorities, staying focused and steadfast! My family has seen a change in me and the smile on my face! I stayed up until 1:30 a.m. last night doing art loving every minute! Will print this article out to keep as a reminder! Thanks for all you do in our community!

Mary Ann Seymour link

6/6/2017 05:27:48 pm

It isn't always easy to disappoint friends when they want your attention and time. And it isn't always easy to miss out on what is going on. But it is worth the battle!

Diana Scandridge

6/6/2017 08:59:36 pm

Thank you so much Matt for leading us into truth. The honesty speaks strongly to my soul. All three lies have prevailed in my heart at different times. This mentoring program constantly encourages me to look to God's truth in realationship to my art.

Rebekah Shattuck

6/7/2017 06:26:32 am

Thanks I hear what you are saying and it is wise and truthful. I know I was drawn to your teaching for a reason. I am all over the place with my art and creative endeavors I did go through your artist's inventory. I am looking for direction.

Karen Turner

6/8/2017 05:51:17 am

1. Take the opportunity. Was conformation to me exactly what God had been trying to get into my heart and mind. Practice to mastery. I am learning watercolor and it is a challenge but I am in it for the long haul!
2.Steal Your Focus. SHOW UP READY Thank you long ago in my Christian walk a message was given come ready to a meeting come prepared to participate in what God has planned. Do not come in with attitude whats in it for me! What am I there for to serve God not just give me. I need that in my art thought too.
3. God's investment into my art do I believe it? Will work on it.

Linda link

6/8/2017 09:13:04 am

Thank you for this information. My artwork actually started out as a hobby and then it became a way for me to spread the message of forgiveness love and protection. I joined the group because I was intrigued by the information available on how to market your art and how to price it. It was my impression when I joined the group that the information you provided was available as time allowed. I only do my art work part time and I do not do it for a living.
Thanks
Linda

Laura

6/8/2017 10:31:15 am

Thank you for this article. I have been a few of these descriptions. A couple years ago a wise sister, after sharing my vision of where I wanted my art work to go, showed me that stepping out one step at a time and prioritizing my art would set things in motion. Still have some ground work to set in place but getting there.

Debbie Garrison

6/13/2017 08:59:54 am

I've definitely been frustrated when I try something and can't seem to get it right. But have learned that when challenging myself to try new techniques, that I won't necessarily feel I'm pleased with the outcome. But that doesn't mean I quit. I walk away to think & vent to the Lord and return to either do something else for awhile and then go back to try again. Priority is something I need to work more on and since I've retired, I do not have the excuse of the lack of 'time'. My main reason for retiring was to pursue my art more intentionally. Now I have to determine how much time, what classes, workshops will benefit. Thanks so much for the article and for your book "Unlocking the Heart of the Artist" (I began reading & journaling last week)!

Penny Robichaux-Koontz link

6/21/2017 04:32:53 pm

Great article, Matt, and so true. I spent 25 years in the health and fitness sales and service business and found points 1, 2, and 3 to be true in the US and internationally. This could not be a worse or more challenging time for me to commit to this program, but I am all in and grateful for all the information you provide and the support of the group.

Thank you.

Barbara Teti link

6/25/2017 09:33:07 pm

Watching your webinar recently and seeing and hearing that you work in partnership with our Creator was very inspiring. My artwork over the years has always been a hobby and working up until last fall I never really considered giving it my all until your or perhaps God's words thru you. I had been hearing God tell me to quit wasting so much time playing computer games which I thoroughly enjoy. I did do illustrations for a book my friend recently had published. I joined your group & have been checking out different resources and have been interacting with different artists thru facebook & your site. I currently again originally as a hobby but perhaps now more started making garden angels which I plan to post. I do not have any art work to sell at this time of my life. Since I signed up for the year as I want to thoroughly read & know a lot more I have signed up for a creative writing class.God gave me a title for a book yrs ago & I researched the title & there is not any books by that name. I currently am doing a seminar for our church where I give a 20 min. witness talk on Our Father's Love & Care to be given in Sept. & do prison ministry inner healing workshops. & babysit our grandchild 3 days& nights a wk. So do not write me off.. I am working with God ,who continues to speak, now more loudly one leap at a time and with Him all things are possible .

Antonia link

6/29/2017 03:23:15 am

Matt, you did it brother! And I thank you for it. I've been guilty of not prioritizing my own growth. But no more. I believe the we all need the best versions of ourselves. Artistically --spiritually--physically...and etc. God deserves that much!!

Barbara Bentley link

7/1/2017 10:39:23 pm

Thank you Matt. You always inspire me. I am leaning into the process and will keep going, prioritize and align with my dream, trusting in HIM all the way through.

Nora Barber link

7/3/2017 12:37:47 pm

Good article. Sometimes the more clearly I set my goals for the next month, the louder life laughs and blows everything out of the water. Add to that a bout of anxiety and depression, a son home, and other things. Thank goodness every day is a new day. I had even spoke of my plans to a group of people, thinking that I would have to see them through, since it was said out loud. Better luck this month.

Mary Ryan

7/7/2017 04:39:27 am

Hi Matt,
Thanks for the good word. Life is always throwing things at us regardless of if we're following our dreams or chained to a "have to" existence. I'm actually writing this while my husband is driving me to the hospital. We got a call at 4am that my mom is in critical condition. Will that change my focus? Absolutely, for the short term. It won't change who God created me to be or my desire to fulfill my purpose. I am glad to be in the mentoring program especially when life gets hard. I think if someone decides to leave it would be after they have attained their dream and even then they should stay to help encourage others who have just started their journey.

April Hill

8/2/2017 07:02:52 pm

Excellent revelation about some of the reasons why artists don't experience breakthrough. I have a MFA in textile design. Yet, I was unable to find stable work to sustain me financially in this field. As I sought the Lord after many years of it not working out, He led me to be an elementary school teacher. It is so rewarding teaching children. I have done prophetic art when the Lord shows me images to draw or paint. But the statement you shared "align with your Divine design" really spoke to me. I know that He has designed me to be a teacher of children, but He has also given me a strong gift in art, design, and working with color. So I am seeking His face on what He has for me to do in the area of the artistic talent and training He has given me. Focus, Patience and Perseverance!

Jenny Swart

8/9/2017 05:38:57 pm

I've been a member of the Choose To Thrive mentoring group for a few months now and so received this today for the second time. So glad I read it again because it showed me that I'm still falling back into old habits. So this time I'll take one more step and not just read your advice but implement it. Thank you Matt for being so direct in your writing. I really, really appreciate it.

Sara Hightower Pope

8/9/2017 06:26:40 pm

Thanks Matt,
The biggest problem I have is time management. There is always someone wanting or needing my time and attention, and I have A LOT of trouble saying "no".
I have decided that if I can schedule Dr appts, time at the gym, lunch with a friend, dinner with Family, time for church, time for prayer, etc, I can certainly schedule time for what I love most. After all, its what my heart longs for even when I'm doing other things.
I have also found it quite fruitful to invite the Lord into my workspace and have quiet time with the Holy Spirit before I create. He amazes me with what He can do through us if we surrender to Him.
And thank you again for mentoring this group. I'm learning so much.

Marged Sian link

8/10/2017 04:12:17 am

Many thanks for your encouragement Matt - I'm thinking on my Vision Board and praying into selling my work. So far, I've tended to give paintings and drawings away as gifts to friends or others who expressed an interest. I know that I'm in this for the long haul.
God bless,
Marged Sian

Ceci Bahr

9/18/2017 11:20:32 pm

Yep..been there as most of us has..and yes I tried to believe the lies of the enemy and shut down..but guess what? God didn't give up on me! How can the artist ignore the calling so persistent within? He has moved my spirit to press on so through your expertise Matt Tommey, I will show up in my art room daily and invite the Holy Spirit and together we will create...and we will thrive. I look forward to participating in the group...now if I can just figure out why my post isnt posting in the fb group!

Karen Wheeler

10/1/2017 04:50:09 am

This is a great article. I have been guilty of all three. Yes I even was talking myself into asking for a refund. But I know this is just what I need. I am making myself a promise to give this mentoring group top priority. I will set aside time every night to read the posts and comment.I want know what God has in store for me. Yes I have a fulltime job, and a terminally ill husband. But God has given me talent and I am determined to learn how he wants me to use it to glorify him. This mentoring program is how I will learn to do this. I believe God brought you into my life. Thank you.

Kevin Simnacher link

10/22/2017 06:49:55 pm

Very true stuff. I am battling the process of making time for this program, but I AM the type who will persevere, even tho it takes me longer to do each of the things on the list.

Angelica Bailey

10/30/2017 08:06:39 pm

I found this article very helpful. I have in the past fallen into all three of these pitfalls. I allowed the circumstances and pressures of life to push me into procrastination mode. In other words, I kept pushing my projects to a "better time" and I wasn't accomplishing very much. I have also allowed fear to hold me back. That is why I am very determined now to make the most of my time and to not procrastinate or let fear hold me back.

Linda Gredy link

11/21/2017 08:44:44 pm

Matt,
I loved this article. I love the idea of leaning into the process, the necessity of laser focus..
I just recently joined the group and am excited about the interaction of this community of artists. Thanks again for caring for us, for your genuine concern.

Dinah Anaya

1/13/2018 07:31:03 pm

I'm learning every day. I'm seeking God every day on this art life. God is good. He is helping me get where I need to get. I agree with you, Matt, this is my breakthrough year!

Marjie`

1/17/2018 03:05:20 pm

Hello Matt, wow--talk about divine timing! This article is another confirmation from the Lord. I just joined a week ago. Right before I saw your email with this article, I had finished writing in my art journal regarding a limiting belief that rose up--confessing it, saying 'no' to it, and replacing it with God's truth from His word. Also said 'no' to a comment from a loved one that caused an initial distraction response!! Responding with a 'yes' to the Lord for renewing my mind, changing my paradigm, and leaning into Him. Last year, I discovered the power of Facebook mentoring groups, and even though I should have been in yours back then, God's timing is perfect. I know I have finally found the right place, and I'm working my way through the 21 Days, believing the Lord and His word, and agreeing with Him as He changes my mind and my life! So excited to be here!

Maria

1/25/2018 06:25:47 pm

Thank you Matt, I know that it could get a bit scary at first in a process, but I have declared that this is my year of breakthrough! I am not going to stop my breakthrough, God will do something because I'm trusting in him. I will not be discouraged or unfocused I am willing to work hard until I see results!

Tim Yerrington

1/29/2018 06:34:45 pm

Matt,

Thanks for speaking the truth in love. The thing that jumped out to me was "Believing a lie becomes easier than asking for help or pushing through difficulties and boom! Another one bites the dust." For too long I believed that being alone in my studio was somehow selfish. I am already experiencing resistance, but I am pressing through for my breakthrough. Gratefully, Tim Yerrington

Catherine Trautmann

2/1/2018 01:12:10 pm

ok my biggest problem has been discouragement and lack of feedback about my art. Like someone looks at it and says nothing. I don't know what direction to go in with it because I do several different things like worship painting, portraits, clay, illustration etc. I have sold paintings but I guess I am looking for someone to say you are good enough. I know that is a waste of time. Consequently I have had large gaps of time in between doing art.

Anne Reid link

2/1/2018 04:16:21 pm

You rock.

KAZUMI EDWARDS

2/2/2018 05:40:39 am

Thank you Matt for being real. I will keep on seeking and pursuing this amazing gift God gave me. Thank you for bringing light to the truth that many of us know, but have a hard time acknowledging. Fear and doubt has no place in the Kingdom of God and over the promises HE has over those who trust and believe in HIM.
God Bless you Brother!

scott j

2/7/2018 09:11:33 am

Thank you Matt, praying for everyone in the group, that we may use our all for Gods Glory, through Jesus Christ.

Angela Marie Cobb

2/7/2018 04:37:30 pm

Thank you, Matt. I am pressing through breakthrough in a couple of areas. Your sending me a link to this article was timely and beneficial. God bless you!

Carol link

2/18/2018 06:23:44 am

Your words ring true. This post is very encouraging for me.

Denise Megow

2/28/2018 10:31:57 am

You are such an encourager! All your videos lift me up and spur me on. It’s like when the enemy has me in a corner and I’m overwhelmed, here comes a video, blog or Facebook post from Matt that gives me courage to stand up, declare who I am in Christ and keep pressing on. Thanks for the encouragement

Jane Schleppenbach link

3/15/2018 09:12:45 am

Hi Matt. Thank you for the link to this article. It is very helpful and will help me to keep priorities straight It is hard to see these concepts in my life without someone who understands what is really happening and states it clearly as you did.

A'mie Alexander

3/16/2018 12:35:26 pm

Thanks so much Matt. It is really helpful and insightful. I am learning to focus even more. I can overcome this hurdle with the help of the Lord and sticking to my clear priorities that align with my unique design and vision as an artist. I know that community really works and am happy to be a part of this one.

Bella Lake link

4/16/2018 06:56:30 am

Thanks Matt, I am really enjoying your candid style, down to earth biblical application to art and life. I'm working through the Inventory, and starting to find some direction, having felt lost for many months. I look forward to participating in your comprehensive, interactive community. Ciao Bella

Felicia Simmons link

4/16/2018 10:03:39 am

Thanks Matt, thanks for your wisdom this was really good timing for me, it is true how you get distracted my grandkids are here for a while ages 8,and 2. And I love my house a certain way however I catch myself putting aside my dream, and cleaning up, then it's time to go to work (real work) I say that because creating art for me is play time I even forget to eat at time. "digress a little"
Then the day is over, and you start feeling guilty, so i've decided a little untidiness wont hurt. That is the fear of you can't succeed trying to distract me from my purpose. Matt you are on time with what you are doing, thanks for being obedient to God's calling Love Always, Felicia

Naomi

4/16/2018 04:19:04 pm

Thanks for encouragement and for speaking straight and NOT candy coating it. I realize it will take self sacrifice to get this off and going and a willingness to let go and let God. Naomi

Valerie

5/8/2018 01:47:15 am

Hi Matt thank you for the very thorough and direct article . Im with you in all of thise reasons for not acheiving my goals - yes there are always excuses not to carry on and it is very difficult sometimes but you have to keep going in one form or another or yes boom another one bites the dust.theres a voice in my head saying ‘ but you cant afford this ‘ and yes i keep wanting to cancel but im working on the piano exams to help towards teaching to fund things and i work shifts as a support worker with people with mental health issues , learning disabilities and brain acquired injury to keep the coffers going whilst still trying to carry on as an artist😊

April Greer

5/9/2018 06:48:33 pm

Hi Matt,
I have been all of these at some point in my life due to immaturity and blindness.. cant see the forest for the trees and stuck by worldly views that are designed to make us fail and become stuck. Until 5 years ago when I realized i was pregnant at 40 and single. I wanted more than anything to stay home with my son and just live and enjoy every single moment.. I got real with my beliefs in who I am in Christ and who he created me to be. I saved my money for nine months. Worked right up to the day he was born and quit my day job and started working on my business (chair caning and Art) full time.. I have been provided for and never happier.. I joined this program so I can take my business to the next level and really thrive. I am so thankful for your program and so ready to dive right in.. Yes the devil does try so hard to come between you and your relationship with God. 4 days after my son was born I learned that my 12 year old had juvenile diabetes, two years later he was diagnosed with celiac disease.. But that did not deter my momentum, We pressed on and gave thanks for all the provisions of God during that time. Then on the heals of that my oldest son 24, went through a terrible divorce and moved in with me with his 4 yr old daughter.. That year was insane and I fell into the oh no's and this is not my time/season. I even quit what I was doing and got a job.. put my son in pre school and was quite miserable for the next year. stagnant and unfruitful.. I know now that was the wrong decision and I have quit that job to jump right back into my real calling. Since that day I have had more joy and seen evidence of God communing with me and seen more money in my account than I have had in a year. I am so glad to be here..also .. the day i quit i pulled my son out of pre k where he was miserable as well. Now we spend our days creating and working together and playing .. I am so in love with my life again.:) :) :)

Wanda Liliedahl

5/16/2018 10:02:15 am

Thank you for revisiting this article. I say ‘revisit’ as I’ve read it a few times and was going to ‘change my ways’, which, did’t happen. This morning I read the article to my husband who was driving and we agreed, for my meditation time.....and the funny part was his telling me what to ask God’s help with......and they were nearly the same exact words Matt gives us in his directions. Now is that an affirmation or what, now, there are no more excuses and I confess, willl start this the morning meditation instead of at night falling asleep ‘on the job’; next is setting my general priorities and specific priorities for the day. Reminders are welcomed, Matt and thank you for helping to press us onward on our journey.

Nora link

5/17/2018 02:33:30 pm

Thanks for the article, Matt! I am working on staying on task.I must learn how to tell people when they can expect to hear back from me. And let them wait. I let someone's need jump ahead of mine again! I already had an exact plan for my day. I was too quick to adjust it, thinking that it would just take a minute. Nothing just takes me a minute. I need to stop falling for that. Thanks for the reminder.

Robynne link

5/18/2018 06:55:59 am

Thank you so so much for this mentoring program! I’ve been in business for over 30 years...(I prided myself on “trusting God” and not being a “planner”) while my dreams fizzled out.
Now at ripe old age of 55 this program is showing me the error of “my ways”.
I am finally “focusing” and while still trusting Him on my journey, I have learned (in only a few short weeks) how to align with the Holy Spirit and together plan a roadmap for success! I was missing this “key” and so wish I had this at my disposal earlier on! Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Rachel

5/18/2018 12:39:04 pm

"People who thrive in their life learn to prioritize themselves first in balance with their family and work relationships. Otherwise, you end up putting out everyone else's fires, having nothing left for yourself." -Matt Tommey

Thank you! What a reminder. This is right on time, confirming that I need to keep my focus, by prioritizing myself first in balance with my family relations. Thank you Matt for sharing this wisdom and thank God for providing, to keep me on track!

John Blundell link

5/21/2018 04:51:06 am

Thanks Matt - That is an encouraging and challenging word particularly at the start of this process. I think that is the key for me to stay focused on the task and prioritise my time to achieve all Father has for me. This is such an exciting adventure! Thanks again Matt.

Valerie Wiebe link

5/24/2018 07:43:15 pm

Thank you for these frank words. I needed the reminder to lean into the process, especially when it feels difficult.

Cheryl B Lemine link

5/29/2018 08:08:19 pm

Thank you for being real, honest and up front. I appreciate reading the article at this stage in my 21 day journey. It provided a little hope and sometimes I think as artists we need to take time to make something for ourselves so we can remember how wonderful it is. And I think we need to lighten up a little and laugh! I'm ready to add some of that to my schedule as well.

Bobbie Blakely link

6/2/2018 01:41:26 pm

Thank you Matt, You are a great encourager. This is my time to thrive!

Theresa

6/17/2018 05:41:45 am

Thank you Matt for this article. I'll take it into consideration.

Peggy Wickham link

6/26/2018 07:34:03 pm

Great article to reaffirm what I'm doing and where I'm going. I too have difficulty with all 3, but probably #1 the most. I opened up my email one day and saw your letter inviting me to join. I dont remember signing up for it, (not surprising, memory is not my strongest suit lately lol!!) but it sure arrived at a moment when my focus has turned to serving God through my artwork because of conversations I've recently had with faith based groups I participate in, and friends, etc. I believe it is time for me to work on this.

The hard part is juggling my time- I have a major show (duo) coming up at the local art center in August. Several paintings have yet to be started as of now, but I'm taking it "one step at a time". I have completed most of the artist inventory, hope to finish it tomorrow. I've done several of the videos, and have worked on the 21 day journey (had lost the link for a bit!!) Progress is slow, but coming along. I'm so excited that the dream I've been hoping for through the years is going to happen. Some aspects still make me nervous, but I will handle those issues when they become relevant, as I have other things to learn about being a thriving Christian artist right now. For now-- I'm happy to be on this journey!!

Cheryl Lemine link

6/27/2018 01:11:14 pm

Every word you said is true. Thank you for framing it in direct love.

Nikki Heitzeberg

6/28/2018 09:21:02 am

Thank you for the reminder to not let things take priority over God's best for my life!

I got a blessing to go to Janice VC's art retreat this past weekend and I believe it was something God used to let me see another perspective of this journey in creativity.

Because of the retreat, I've gotten behind in the "beginner's" part of your mentoring program. But I am so determined to cooperate with God and His plans for me and the gift He's given me, I'm going to back track and start the "beginner's" part again from scratch. I am becoming confident in what I want, knowing it is going to take some "elbow grease", self discipline and His vision and leading to become all He has designed me to be.

I'm so excited! Thank you for this admonition and encouragement to stay the course He's planned for me!

Blessings and more to you and yours!

Cristaña link

6/28/2018 05:37:01 pm

Thank you, Matt! Appreciate the redirection. Many thanks for a good kick in the creative britches.... Reminds me that I can do this... change and balance are a daily choice.

Martha

7/10/2018 06:00:50 pm

Thanks for these words. They’re direct and encouraging. My journey is a slow one but it is continuing to move forward.

3 Reasons Some Artists will Never Experience Breakthrough...

Leave a Reply.

Author

Archives