![]() 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:
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!)
74 Comments
5/28/2017 09:32:00 am
Thanks for encouragement and advice. Helps me to keep focused and keep on keeping on.
Reply
9/28/2017 12:36:12 pm
Your words ring true and really reveals the choice is in the artist hands.
Reply
Paula Parkison
5/28/2017 11:44:30 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.
Reply
5/29/2017 09:41:29 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.
Reply
Cecilia Bramhall
6/6/2017 03:08:05 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!
Reply
Janet "Jan" Thorp
6/6/2017 03:52:53 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.)
Reply
Linda
6/6/2017 07:13:44 pm
Matt,
Reply
6/6/2017 08:27:48 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!
Reply
Diana Scandridge
6/6/2017 11:59:36 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.
Reply
Rebekah Shattuck
6/7/2017 09:26:32 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.
Reply
Karen Turner
6/8/2017 08:51:17 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!
Reply
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.
Reply
Laura
6/8/2017 01:31:15 pm
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.
Reply
Debbie Garrison
6/13/2017 11:59:54 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)!
Reply
6/21/2017 07:32:53 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.
Reply
6/26/2017 12:33:07 am
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 .
Reply
7/2/2017 01:39:23 am
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.
Reply
7/3/2017 03:37:47 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.
Reply
Mary Ryan
7/7/2017 07:39:27 am
Hi Matt,
Reply
April Hill
8/2/2017 10:02:52 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!
Reply
Jenny Swart
8/9/2017 08:38:57 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.
Reply
Sara Hightower Pope
8/9/2017 09:26:40 pm
Thanks Matt,
Reply
8/10/2017 07:12:17 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.
Reply
Ceci Bahr
9/19/2017 02:20:32 am
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!
Reply
Karen Wheeler
10/1/2017 07:50:09 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.
Reply
10/22/2017 09:49:55 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.
Reply
Angelica Bailey
10/30/2017 11:06:39 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.
Reply
11/21/2017 11:44:44 pm
Matt,
Reply
Dinah Anaya
1/13/2018 10:31:03 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!
Reply
Marjie`
1/17/2018 06:05:20 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!
Reply
Maria
1/25/2018 09:25:47 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!
Reply
Tim Yerrington
1/29/2018 09:34:45 pm
Matt,
Reply
Catherine Trautmann
2/1/2018 04:12:10 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.
Reply
KAZUMI EDWARDS
2/2/2018 08:40:39 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.
Reply
scott j
2/7/2018 12:11:33 pm
Thank you Matt, praying for everyone in the group, that we may use our all for Gods Glory, through Jesus Christ.
Reply
Angela Marie Cobb
2/7/2018 07:37:30 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!
Reply
Denise Megow
2/28/2018 01:31:57 pm
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
Reply
3/15/2018 12:12:45 pm
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.
Reply
A'mie Alexander
3/16/2018 03:35:26 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.
Reply
4/16/2018 09:56:30 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
Reply
4/16/2018 01:03:39 pm
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"
Reply
Naomi
4/16/2018 07:19:04 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
Reply
Valerie
5/8/2018 04:47:15 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😊
Reply
April Greer
5/9/2018 09:48:33 pm
Hi Matt,
Reply
Wanda Liliedahl
5/16/2018 01:02:15 pm
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.
Reply
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.
Reply
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.
Reply
Rachel
5/18/2018 03:39:04 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
Reply
5/21/2018 07:51:06 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.
Reply
5/24/2018 10:43:15 pm
Thank you for these frank words. I needed the reminder to lean into the process, especially when it feels difficult.
Reply
5/29/2018 11:08:19 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.
Reply
6/2/2018 04:41:26 pm
Thank you Matt, You are a great encourager. This is my time to thrive!
Reply
Theresa
6/17/2018 08:41:45 am
Thank you Matt for this article. I'll take it into consideration.
Reply
6/26/2018 10:34:03 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.
Reply
6/27/2018 04:11:14 pm
Every word you said is true. Thank you for framing it in direct love.
Reply
Nikki Heitzeberg
6/28/2018 12:21:02 pm
Thank you for the reminder to not let things take priority over God's best for my life!
Reply
Martha
7/10/2018 09:00:50 pm
Thanks for these words. They’re direct and encouraging. My journey is a slow one but it is continuing to move forward.
Reply
Elizabeth Beasley
10/1/2018 03:24:00 pm
I needed to hear this. Thank you!!!
Reply
Pamela Johnson
10/3/2018 07:08:52 am
This email showed up at just the right time. I just signed up for your mentoring program last week and already dealing with familiar pangs of sleepless nights, self doubt, and being paralyzed. Something inside will not let me give up even though I have been trying for what seems like an eternity.
Reply
Pam Apley
10/3/2018 09:47:26 am
Thank you Matt for this good article. Very timely for me. I just signed up last week and we promptly left on a two week vacation that has been planned for a long while. It has derailed my thinking and I haven't even had time to investigate the resources and the program I signed up for....and becoming discouraged before even getting started and questioning my "why". I realize the enemy would like me to turn away and not persue using the gifts God has given me for HIS glory. I'm anxious to get involved and take the next steps---and I WILL!
Reply
Joyce Steele Cox
10/3/2018 11:06:42 am
Thank you for allowing me to be a part of this 'community' of artists! I want God to use me and I want my art to encourage, lift up and make people smile when they see it! I don't have a lot of time to fully take advantage of this mentoring program, but I really need the advice and guidance that it offers.
Reply
Cindy Rae Fancher
10/3/2018 06:31:48 pm
Thank you Matt. I just early retired from a very successful career, because I felt I had another job that I could and should do. I can see that each day I have to make choices to put my new life and art first. It would be very easy to put other things first, but in my mind and soul I know that is a mistake. Thank you for confirming some of my thoughts and the encouragement to stand firm in the long term, my faith and what I am realizing is a calling I have ignored for too long.
Reply
Sue Stiver
10/4/2018 09:49:35 pm
Thank you, Matt! This is a good blog and a perfect place to start. I have just joined the group, and have already had my first meltdown. Very gratefully, I am connected with other artists who are quick to remind me of God's purpose and call for artists. They help me realign my focus with our Father, and set me back on track in the right direction. Thank you for all you are doing for the Kingdom as you raise up an army of artists.
Reply
Vanessa Wylie
10/5/2018 08:54:12 am
All very true!
Reply
Sophia Latter
10/5/2018 06:39:03 pm
What great encouragement! Thank you :)
Reply
Barbara
10/6/2018 10:02:04 am
Thank you so much.I needed to hear everything.I'm having hard time finding all your wonderful teaching, as long as I can find your emails I well continue to devour your knowledge.I have more trouble mastering the computer and phone than I do the painting I love to do. With all your help and prayers I now believe I can do more with my art than just for gifts and by request.thank you.
Reply
Mary Cross
10/7/2018 08:55:03 pm
Thanks for the encouragement to keep on track with the vision and goals that God has set before us! It does take hard work--so appreciate that reminder!
Reply
1/24/2019 05:50:06 am
Good article. I have come across and read it earlier. Most assuredly as soon as I committed to joining the mentoring group, things started happening. But that has always been the case in my life. The enemy knows my weaknesses and sometimes they sneak up on me. I don’t recall your words exactly in a video I watched, but I think the gist of it was that Satan is not going to ever let up. We just have to learn to change our responses. I think that was it? That makes sense and it’s true. Like, the only way to not ever face another problem is to stop living. Yes, we will always have tribulations in this life even along with the blessings. Just have to determine that if we get knocked down, just get back up. A good kind of stubborn actually.
Reply
Matt Tommey
1/24/2019 08:29:37 am
I noticed you commented here on my blog about the mentoring program and needing help navigating the program. Sheree, our Facebook community manager is always available to help in the Created to Thrive Group or Mark via ecourse@matttommeymentoring.com.
Reply
Leave a Reply. |
Categories
All
AuthorMatt Tommey is an artist, author and mentor who is passionate about empowering artists to thrive spiritually, artistically and in business. |