Making Time For Your Art
November 26, 2023
Finding time for your art amidst the demands of daily life can be a challenging endeavor. Let's face it, we all have busy lives. Between work, family, and binge-watching our favorite TV shows, it can be tough to find time for our artistic pursuits. But if you really want to make art a priority, it's essential to take a step back and assess how you're currently spending your time. Are there any activities or commitments that you can cut back on or eliminate altogether? Maybe you don't need to watch every episode of that reality TV show (I won't judge you if you skip a few). Figuring out where you can free up some time is the first step towards making more room for your art.
Set Clear Goals and Objectives
So, you want to make time for your art. But what exactly do you want to achieve? Rather than saying "I want to paint more," try setting a goal like "I want to complete three paintings by the end of the month." This not only gives you a clear objective but also provides a measurable way to track your progress. Remember, it's important to set goals that are realistic and achievable. While it's great to dream big, setting goals that are too overwhelming can lead to frustration and burnout.
Create a Dedicated Art Space
Having a designated space for your art can do wonders for your creativity and productivity. It doesn't have to be a grand studio with floor-to-ceiling windows (although that would be nice), but simply a corner or a room where you can concentrate and let your artistic juices flow. Whether it's a spare bedroom, a corner of your living room, or even just a small desk, having a dedicated space will help you get into the right mindset for creating.
My little art nook in a corner of our bedroom.
Once you have your art space set up, it's time to get organized. Having your art supplies within reach and neatly organized will save you time and frustration. Imagine the joy of knowing exactly where your paintbrushes, pencils, or paints are when inspiration strikes! Take some time to sort through your supplies, discard any dried-up tubes of paint or worn out brushes, and invest in storage solutions that work for you. And don't forget to stock up on the essentials so you're always prepared and ready to create.
Establish a Consistent Routine
One of the most effective ways to make time for your art is to establish a consistent routine. Consider your schedule and carve out dedicated time blocks for your creative pursuits. Whether it's an hour every morning or a few evenings a week, make a commitment to yourself and stick to it. Treat these time blocks as non-negotiable appointments with your art. Trust me, your art will thank you for it.
To stay on track with your artistic goals, create a schedule that outlines when you'll work on specific tasks. This can help you stay focused and avoid procrastination. Maybe Monday evenings are for sketching, Wednesday mornings are for writing, and Sunday afternoons are for experimenting with new techniques. Tailor your schedule to fit your own preferences and energy levels. And remember, while it's important to stick to your schedule as much as possible, life happens. Be flexible and kind to yourself if you need to make adjustments along the way.
Making time for your art requires intention, prioritization, and a commitment to your creative journey. By assessing your priorities, setting clear goals, establishing routines, and maximizing productivity, you can overcome the challenges of limited time and create space for your artistic expression. Remember, even small steps can lead to big accomplishments. So, grab your paintbrush, some paints, and make your art a priority.