The Biggest Mistake I Made at the Beginning
The Biggest Mistake I Made at the Beginning [t-h-i-n-k]
When I started my art career I spent much of my time watching what everyone around me was doing. This is because I felt like I didn’t know what I was doing.
But focusing on everything and everyone outside of me only took away from my own self-development – both as an artist and businesswoman. When it came to spend time on my work and my business, my tank was low. The majority of my energy was projected outward, not inward. Over time I learned this was the exact opposite of what would help me the most in developing my career as an artist.
Today, social media directs us to do this very thing. We scroll and look at what everyone else is doing, directing our thoughts and energy away from our own painting practice. This is why over time I have limited my exposure to social media.
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Get Social, But Only for <30 Minutes [k-n-o-w]
Research suggests limiting social media use to about 30 minutes per day may be beneficial for mental health. This allows you to stay connected without overexposure. Overexposure leads to anxiety, depression, disassociation, and comparison among other things.
Some key points:
Set time limits and stick to them
Be mindful of how social media affects your mood
Focus on meaningful interactions rather than passive scrolling
Take regular breaks from social media
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[G-R-O-W]
If you find you’re focusing your energy outwards instead of inwards, are you experiencing Imposter Syndrome? One of the most common examples of Imposter Syndrome is when you’ve started your own business (or perhaps you’ve just hung out your “Art for Sale” shingle); however, you don't like to promote yourself because you feel you don't have the same level of experience or expertise as others in your field, making you feel like a fraud.
Learn more about the most destructive self-habit here