Artist Problems: Lack of Motivation

I would say today was a horrendous art day for me. I wanted to do art, but nothing came out as planned, I was low on energy, and it was really hard to keep pushing through. Here are some thoughts on lack of motivation and how I became re-inspired by the end of the day.

Causes

1. Insecurity/Anxiety - this is a big one. We all have insecurities, but some days we just wake up on the wrong side of the bed. I couldn't even pin-point what was making me feel off today. Eventually, I took a bath to "restart" my day even though it was almost over, went grocery shopping, and finished that task that was sitting on the back of my mind. I immediately started to feel somewhat better. Taking care of those daunting tasks and taking care of myself helped me feel better, more secure, and in control of my life.

2.) Monotony - The humdrum of everyday life is a complete trap. If there's anything to take away from this blog post, please read this one: Lack of originality and motivation in art, I find for myself, is when I have a lack of curiosity and new experiences. 

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The other day, even though it was freezing cold outside, I sat on the porch and sketched a plant and a tree just for the sake of doing something different. I felt better. Today, taking a small drive to the grocery store and running errands I needed to do helped me clear my mind and my schedule. Lastly, I watched a documentary about the ocean on Netflix. This was the turning point for me. It had been so long since I watched something informative and interesting about our world. I was immediately starting to get inspired to draw some creepy deep sea creatures!

My top tip I would give is: Always be curious. Have wonder about this amazing world and universe we live in. Fill your mind. Watch documentaries or go to museums. These are not only breaks and breaths of fresh air, but give us perspective and purpose again. Learning = playing, if you know what you like!

Other Quick Fixes

1. There are a few things that sometimes work on a whim. One is very simple. I need new and better music than the same playlist I've been listening to for over a half of a year. This works wonders.

2. Listen to motivating podcasts until you're on fire! A good podcast is just like a good book. I can get really cozy listening to one in the background while doing work. I won't take that back, though some may call it blasphemy. (Studies show we retain podcasts and audiobooks the same as if we would read them. Plus, they save time if you have a busy schedule or if you're often driving!) I'm officially addicted, though I'll always love the smell of physical books and flipping pages.

3. H.A.L.T. - an acronym that a friend told me about a few years ago. It stands for Hungry, Aggravated, Lonely, Tired. These are things we can fix or at least observe in ourselves and adjust as needed. Most of the time, when we can't concentrate, it's one or all of these things that are the culprits. Take good care of yourself and treat yourself well, so you can give your all to the world. And if you need to, dress up for yourself. Dress up or down, whatever makes you feel comfortable and happy.

4.) Read up on good news, new tech, a new subject you've been curious about, hobbies, or fun facts. I personally like finding new apps that are growing in popularity. Trends are fun to find - most social sites will have what's currently trending. There's also an archaeology website one of my college professors told me about. It updates daily! I love knowing what ancient treasures are uncovered. If you're curious, it's here!

In Closing

For me, my lack of motivation almost always comes from lack of curiosity and new experiences. The good news is that, it doesn't always take a lot of effort to change. Something new but small often does the trick.

Quote: "If you do what you've always done, you'll get what you've always gotten." - Tony Robbins

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Addie Thibodeaux