13 Ways To Improve Your Artistic Mindset
I have been swimming in improvement podcasts and courses in both the business and art worlds. I’m trying to figure out how to improve in my art and eventually make a living from just art and/or teaching.
As a result, I hear some terms repeatedly: mindset, manifestation, visualization, and reticular activating system.
When I hear terms being bandied about, I like to research them and see if they fit with my worldview. I was a former scientist so I like to see if things make scientific sense. But I’m also a Christian, so I test things out to see if they fit within my belief system as well (hint: I don’t see manifesting as fitting my Christian worldview, but more on that in later posts).
Hence, this blog. This is the first in a series where I will investigate the terms, see where they came from, determine if they are hooey or not, and see how I can apply what I learn to help me grow as an artist.
I’m going to break these terms down into different blogs, to keep the content shorter. So I shall tackle “mindset” first. I’ll probably bounce in and out of this series over the next few months.
Where Did the Term “Mindset” Come From?
The term "mindset" has its origins in the early 20th century. It was popularized by the psychologist William James, often considered one of the most influential figures in the development of modern psychology. In his book "The Principles of Psychology," published in 1890, James used the term "mindset" to describe the individual's unique perspective and mental habits.
While James introduced the concept, it was psychologist Carol Dweck who made “mindset” more widely known due to her research on achievement and success. Dweck wrote a book called, "Mindset: The New Psychology of Success," which was published in 2006. In the book, she explored the idea of a "fixed mindset" versus a "growth mindset". She wrote about how these mindsets can influence people's attitudes and behaviors in various areas of life, from education to career development.
What Exactly Is A “Mindset”?
A mindset refers to our established beliefs, attitudes, and thought patterns that shape our perception of the world, influence our behaviors, and impact our responses to various situations and challenges.
Mindset plays a fundamental role in how we approach and navigate life, including our personal and professional development. There are two main types of mindset: fixed and growth.
Fixed Mindset vs. Growth Mindset
Fixed Mindset- In a fixed mindset, individuals tend to believe that their abilities, intelligence, and characteristics are largely static and cannot be changed significantly. They might avoid challenges or view failures as reflecting their inherent limitations. This mindset can lead to a fear of failure and a lack of motivation to learn or grow.
Growth Mindset- A growth mindset, on the other hand, is characterized by the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed and improved with effort, learning, and perseverance. People with a growth mindset are more likely to embrace challenges, view failures as opportunities for growth, and persist in the face of setbacks. They have a more optimistic and proactive approach to personal and professional development.
Reading the descriptions of these two terms has me thinking that I would prefer to have a growth mindset as an artist. I think it’s fairly obvious that if you have a fixed mindset, you don’t think you can improve in art or make it as an artist.
Is Mindset “Woo” or Not?
Based on what I have learned so far, I do not think that the concept of mindset is “woo” (a slang term that means “out there” and lacks a scientific basis). The term is a psychological term, which seems to be based on scientific research.
The concept of mindset doesn’t go against my belief system either. I know there are ways of thinking that I possess that I need to consciously work on.
Here is what I have learned regarding the brain and mindset.
Neuroplasticity- How It Leads to Mindset
Neuroplasticity enables the brain to adapt and rewire itself in response to new information and experiences. When individuals learn new skills, acquire knowledge, or experience different situations, the brain forms new neural connections and strengthens existing ones. This process enhances cognitive abilities and can lead to changes in thinking patterns.
Think about it this way- your brain builds new roads as you learn things. If you continually think the same way your brain will use the same roads. If you learn new skills, your brain will build different roads. It is easier for you if your brain uses the old roads. That is why it can feel frustrating when you learn something new. But after a bit of time practicing new skills, it becomes easier as new neural pathways are built.
In this same manner, we develop modes of thinking or mindsets. Our mindsets tend to be fixed or growth based on how we have been thinking in the past. The good news is that we can move towards a growth mindset with a little self-awareness and effort.
13 Ways To Improve Your Artistic Mindset
Here are 13 ways that I have researched that are supposed to help improve your mindset. Of course, I’ll add my two cents on each strategy. Some of these are similar tactics to the ones I researched for combating imposter syndrome. If you want to check out that blog, click here.
Practice Self-Compassion:
Be kind and patient with yourself. Understand that not every piece of art has to be a masterpiece.
This is something that I have to work on. I think that because I have a day job, I feel like I only have limited time, and so I push myself to try and make great art. But that’s not realistic. Some of my art isn’t going to be great. That’s just a fact. But it’s okay because I’m not perfect so of course I’m not going to make perfect art. I have to remind myself that.
Set Realistic Goals:
Instead of aiming for perfection, set achievable goals for your art. Celebrate small victories along the way, and recognize your progress.
Baby steps are much more achievable than giant leaps. It’s easy to look at social media and see the great things that artists are creating and get discouraged. But it’s good to remind yourself that those artists didn’t get that good overnight. They worked on their craft over time before reaching their current level.
I like to reverse engineer goals. So for example, if I know I want to win a pastel competition by next year there are a few things I can do. I can follow a tutorial from an expert, make sure that I draw x amount of pastel pieces to get practice time in and have a pastel piece critiqued by an expert. Those baby steps would help to improve my chances of winning in a competition.
Maintain a Growth Mindset:
Embrace the idea that you can improve and develop your artistic skills over time. View challenges and failures as learning experiences rather than setbacks. That Nelson Mandela saying, “I only win or learn”, is applicable here.
I have gotten better with this way of thinking, but I will say I have to consciously think about what I’ve learned after I draw something “ugly” to push past the sense of failure.
I like to keep my ugly pieces so that after a bit of time I can look back and see how much I have improved.
Cultivate Creativity:
Allow yourself to explore different artistic styles and mediums. Experimentation can help you break free from creative ruts and discover new sources of inspiration.
I like to do this by hopping around and playing with different media. This is essential for me after I do a colored pencil piece that takes 80 hours. It gives my brain a break and allows me to develop different skills.
I also like to listen to other artists on podcasts and see what kind of materials and techniques they use. This gives me inspiration to experiment with things I may have never considered.
Surround Yourself with Positivity:
Engage with a supportive and encouraging artistic community. Share your work with others, seek feedback, and provide support to fellow artists.
This is helpful on Instagram for me. I have a community of people who I really appreciate. We spur each other on and celebrate wins together. I also intend to do this more with people in my local community in the coming year. I joined a local artist group. I am really hoping I don’t have to work, and that I can get to the annual meeting.
Visualization:
Visualize your artistic goals and success. Create a mental image of your achievements and use this as motivation to drive your creative pursuits.
This is something I will be writing a blog about soon. I need to delve into the science more before I can get on board with it. That said, I feel like there must be something to it because this is something that athletes do all the time.
I will say that I do visualize my finished piece before I begin. I have a good feeling that it will be a great piece or not at the start. I’m not sure if this is scientific, but it usually works out.
Gratitude Journaling:
Keep a gratitude journal where you write down things you're grateful for in your artistic journey. This practice can shift your focus from what's lacking to what you have.
Every day I write down things I’m thankful to God for. I don’t limit my gratitude to artist endeavors, but I think this is a good daily habit. I find it to be a very helpful practice. There are always things I can be grateful for, and it’s healthy to focus on that instead of what I think I am lacking.
Seek Inspiration:
Explore the works of artists who inspire you. Learn from their experiences and appreciate their creative journeys.
I do this a lot! My friend and I just went to the National Gallery of Art. I also love to listen to the Sharpened Artist Podcast, where they interview many great artists. I find it to be inspirational and heartening to hear others’ success stories.
Take Breaks:
Avoid burnout by taking regular breaks from your art. Engage in other activities that recharge your creative energy and provide a change of perspective.
I also do this a lot. I like to take my pups to the state park or even just around my neighborhood. Getting outside is a great way for me to recharge. I also like to write blogs :) I find I can only draw for a certain amount of time before my brain hurts.
Celebrate Your Uniqueness:
Embrace your individuality as an artist. Your unique perspective and style are what makes your work special.
I try to remember this when I’m feeling bad about myself after spending too much time on Instagram. It’s easy to look at others and think how much better they are. That is a very ridiculous and unhealthy mindset.
I have to remind myself that there is enough room for all of us as artists. I know that over time I will develop more skills and my own special style that can help me to stand out more in the crowd.
This is also where my Christian worldview is helpful. I know that I will achieve what I’m supposed to on this Earth, and so I don’t have to stress about it.
Constructive Self-Talk:
Challenge negative self-talk by replacing it with positive and affirming statements. For example, instead of saying, "I'm not good enough," say, "I'm improving and growing with every piece I create."
This one tip is a little corny and reminds me of Stuart Smalley’s Daily Affirmations on Saturday Night Live. I’ll link to it here. I’m sure there’s something to this, but I’m not sure I can do it with a straight face in a mirror. Lol.
Professional Development:
Invest in workshops, classes, or courses to enhance your artistic skills. Gaining knowledge and new techniques can boost your confidence and positivity.
I’m a perpetual learner now. Probably because I wasn’t as dedicated as I should have been while actually in school. I wish I could take a ton of art classes now. But due to time constraints, I just include one from time to time. There are so many courses online to choose from.
Reflect on Your Journey:
Periodically review your artistic progress. Recognize how far you've come and acknowledge your achievements.
I love doing this. It’s fun to see how quickly you improve. Save all of your old work, and from time to time create a post sharing how much you have gotten better over time. There’s no better motivation than seeing your own improvement.
Conclusion
The concept of mindset is far from being "woo" or lacking in scientific basis. As we've explored the fascinating world of neuroplasticity and its influence on our thinking patterns, it's evident that our mindset is not fixed but malleable. The 13 strategies for improving your artistic mindset are practical and grounded in science. From practicing self-compassion to visualizing success, nurturing creativity, and embracing your uniqueness, these steps can genuinely help you grow as an artist. By fostering self-awareness and making a conscious effort to apply these strategies, you can embark on a journey of artistic development and self-improvement. Your mindset is a powerful tool, and with the right approach, you can unlock your creative potential and continue to progress in your artistic endeavors.