Trusting Your Creative Journey: Overcoming Doubt and Embracing Confidence

For many of us, the path to embracing our creativity begins with doubt and uncertainty. When we view the masterpieces in art museums and galleries by famous artists, we feel our own feeble attempts could never measure up. Yet, what we often fail to realize are the innumerable rejected efforts, the countless discarded works, and the myriad of self-doubting moments that preceded those outward displays of success. In this post, we explore the transformative journey of trusting your creative instincts, overcoming doubt, and embracing the power of creative confidence.

Growing up, I never considered myself an artist. Like many, I was in awe of the masterpieces adorning the walls of prestigious galleries and museums. It appeared to be an unreachable ambition, only available to a tiny group of people with natural “talent.” It wasn’t until I allowed myself to be a beginner student—like having your seat held to be able to learn to ride a bicycle—that I could better appreciate the trials, tribulations, decisions, and even luck that lead to an artist’s recognition.

I soon realized that behind every masterpiece lies a journey of education, experimentation, endurance, and perseverance. Artists don’t simply create masterpieces overnight; they undergo a process of trial and error, honing their craft and refining their skills along the way. It’s this willingness to trust in their passion, attraction to a subject matter, and emotional connection that sets them apart.

For me, embracing my creativity meant letting go of the notion that I needed to be perfect from the start. I learned to trust in my instincts, to follow my curiosity, and to embrace the beauty of imperfection. It was through this process of self-discovery that I began to unlock my creative confidence and express myself authentically.

Creative confidence isn’t about being flawless; it’s more about having the courage to share your distinct viewpoint with the world than it is about being perfect.  It comes down to being willing to attempt something you have not done before, putting your faith in your enthusiasm, being willing to experiment and fail…and maybe fail again, yet learn along the way, and finally being open to that vulnerability needed to share those imperfect pieces while continuing to pursue your creative vision. When you trust in your creative instincts, you open yourself up to a world of possibility, innovation, and self-expression.

At my first art show, when all the paintings I had made thus far were hung on the walls, I had a moment akin to having the “umbilical cord cut”—these were my “babies.” “Who made these?” I asked myself as I stepped back to take it all in. I then opened the doors to my friends and family, and to the curious. Astoundingly, I sold seven paintings from that first exhibit! (Vincent Van Gogh only sold one in his lifetime…and his brother was an art dealer!) Each successive showing I experience some of the same trepidation, and sometimes I do not sell anything, but I continue to find ways to share my work–because now I know I have a gift to give to the world and it is my job to display that gift.

In conclusion, embracing your creativity is a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and growth. It’s about overcoming doubt and embracing the power of creative confidence, trusting in your passion, and allowing yourself to be vulnerable in the pursuit of your artistic vision. So, let go of perfectionism, trust in your instincts, and embrace the beauty of imperfection. Your creative journey is uniquely yours, and the world is waiting to experience the beauty that only you can create.