I haven’t even been a full-time artist for a year yet and one of the things I know for sure is that self-care is vital. Of course, not everyone is going to like your work or like it enough to buy it, and unfortunately, you will face rejection and disappointment. I don’t mean to be a Debbie Downer, that’s just the way it is. As an artist you have to try and not take things too personally and develop a bit of thick skin around your heart. To stay positive and focused on your creative goals, it’s good to practice regular self-care. Do little things for yourself that make you happy and pat yourself on the back for even the smallest accomplishments. Here are some of the little things I do for myself:

• Buy my favorite fancy coffee drink
• Sit on the porch with a good magazine
• Take a long walk
• Take a drive in the country listening to my favorite music and singing until my throat hurts
• Talk positively and encouragingly to myself

I’m always daydreaming of going on an artist retreat/workshop in some beautiful town or country with other amazing artists. I see them advertised all the time so I look into them and see their price tags and get down and discouraged (you know how pricey they can be!). So I decided I’m going to plan my own little artist retreat and I get so excited just planning it! I’m going to give myself a week and just do it from my home when I’ll have the house all to myself. I’m planning time everyday for coffee, reading from a new art book, watching a couple YouTube demonstrations, creative time with music, a short walk with my dog, wine and cheese in my studio, more creative time, and a take-out dinner. I think it sounds amazing and it just might become a regular practice!

Take care of yourselves! 💗