Thanks for explaining this reluctance to attempt that first pen stroke. It’s a relief to know this is quite common. My sketch pad and pen are sitting right next to me. Waiting.
I have to really start pushing out the negative self talk. My writing mentor told me one time when I said something I wrote was stupid: "You would never talk to your friend, Lisa, that way, would you?" It's taught me to quit berating myself and just lean into the process. This is SO helpful! Thanks for posting this.
This post resonated so much with me, thanks for sharing! I'm struggling with the fear of beginning a lot and also like to do ink scribbles to overcome this. I've made some good progress with that strategy but still struggle when I'm drawing in non-regular settings (e.g. outside or anywhere else than my desk at home, especially when I'm not alone).
Hi Maja, I’m so glad you enjoyed the post. In settings where starting feels especially daunting, that’s the best opportunity to teach your brain that you are safe to try. Any little movement of approach over avoidance will help!
Thanks for explaining this reluctance to attempt that first pen stroke. It’s a relief to know this is quite common. My sketch pad and pen are sitting right next to me. Waiting.
You’re welcome! Hopefully your sketch pad won’t have to wait too long. Any little effort to mark that first mark is worth it!
I have to really start pushing out the negative self talk. My writing mentor told me one time when I said something I wrote was stupid: "You would never talk to your friend, Lisa, that way, would you?" It's taught me to quit berating myself and just lean into the process. This is SO helpful! Thanks for posting this.
I’m so glad you found this post helpful, Lisa! I struggle with negative self talk, too. But breathing and leaning in help a lot!
This post resonated so much with me, thanks for sharing! I'm struggling with the fear of beginning a lot and also like to do ink scribbles to overcome this. I've made some good progress with that strategy but still struggle when I'm drawing in non-regular settings (e.g. outside or anywhere else than my desk at home, especially when I'm not alone).
Hi Maja, I’m so glad you enjoyed the post. In settings where starting feels especially daunting, that’s the best opportunity to teach your brain that you are safe to try. Any little movement of approach over avoidance will help!
You're right. I'm glad for this reminder, I'll keep this in mind!