Think you’re not an artist? Think again. 7 steps to banish the Imposter Syndrome
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Unsure where to channel your creativity?
Believe a myth that you have no creativity?
Want to add more spark to your life?
Read on
Think you’re not an artist? Think again.
7 steps to banish the Imposter Syndrome
My three oldest and closest friends are artists and art teachers. They’ve sold art, showcased art, and have lived and breathed art. As an outlier, I became a writer. For years, I didn’t think of writing as art and believed that because I could barely draw a stick figure, I was not an artist.
But was I?
As a kid, I loved to paint. I molded clay and experimented in the kitchen. As a teenager, I wrote REALLY bad poetry. In college, I learned to batik and make jewelry.
But still.
I wasn’t an artist, was I?
It took years to unravel.
Everyone has a hidden kernel of creativity, whether they believe it or not. The essence of being an artist goes beyond mere talent or skill; it is a connection to imagination, nature, your inner self, and the world.
Folks often shy away from their creative impulses due to fear of judgment or self-doubt. Ironically, believing in one's artistic nature serves as a powerful antidote to these inhibitions. It grants permission to create without the constant worry of external validation, fostering an environment where experimentation and risk-taking become integral parts of the creative process. Writer Mary Lou Cook says it best, "Creativity is inventing, experimenting, growing, taking risks, breaking rules, making mistakes, and having fun."
Creativity is not reserved for a select few. It is a skill that can be developed and nurtured. Here are seven strategies to enhance creative potential:
Change Your Mindset: Start by challenging the belief that you're not creative. Creativity comes in various forms and doesn't always manifest as traditional artistry. It can be expressed through problem-solving, innovation, and even everyday activities.
Don’t Judge: Avoid self-criticism and judgment. Allow yourself to generate ideas without analyzing.
Embrace Curiosity: Cultivate a curious mindset. Ask questions, explore new topics, and be open to learning. Curiosity is a powerful driver of creativity encouraging you to look at things from different perspectives and discover novel connections.
Dabble: Experiment with various activities, even those outside your comfort zone. Engaging in diverse experiences can stimulate creativity by exposing you to new ideas, perspectives, and ways of thinking.
Mindful Observation: Take the time to observe your surroundings with intention and focus. Notice details, patterns, and relationships between things. Mindful observation can spark creative ideas and insights.
Collaborate with your Community: Engage with others to find fresh ideas and inspiration. Take a class (check out a few of mine at www.carriebrownwolf.com)
Walk Away (But Return): Sometimes, the best ideas emerge when your mind is relaxed. Take breaks, go for a walk, or engage in activities that allow your mind to wander and recharge. I find solutions and inspiration in the shower. Go figure. The practice is in returning to the page, the palette, or the piano and play.
Creativity is a process, not a fixed trait. By incorporating these strategies into your daily life, you can gradually cultivate and enhance your creative abilities. Remember Ray Bradbury’s quote: "Don't think. Thinking is the enemy of creativity. It's self-conscious, and anything self-conscious is lousy. You can't try to do things. You simply must do things."
Embrace your identity as a creative. It’s a declaration of self-expression and authenticity. Identifying as an artist is not only about the act of creation but also about personal growth. Art takes many forms: speaking, painting, performing, writing etc.. Saying you’re an artist in some format will likely help you confront and overcome obstacles.
The journey of self-discovery and artistic development is a continuous process that shapes not only the art itself but your character and resilience. It involves the courage to be true to oneself and to communicate thoughts and emotions in a way that is genuine and uninhibited.
Step into 2026 and say it…. you ARE an artist!
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Quotes for the Soul!
“Don’t think. Thinking is the enemy of creativity. It’s self-conscious, and anything self-conscious is lousy. You can’t try to do things. You simply must do things.”
“Creativity is inventing, experimenting, growing, taking risks, breaking rules, making mistakes, and having fun.”
Thanks for reading. Creativity is not a command performance, but I hope you’ll stay and become inspired. If you know someone interested in creative endeavors, please forward this on!