I am 35. I am not a writer, I am not an artist. I express, with disjointed words and wonky doodles. I have no mastery and no technical tools. Often the thought of starting now, feels like a joke, another one of those escapist fantasies. But there is something in my core that tells me I should try. Thank you for everything you've said, Sir. It's all very real.
Sounds like you're a writer & artist who isn't writing or drawing. Perhaps start with crayons to do both & see where it goes. I send you oodles of writer/artist vibes from my creative genius to yours! Been there. Still a work-in-progress.
@@carolstefan7662 :-) encouraging to know you have kept at it. It's daunting, but inconsequential as they may be, the silliest pictures I make bring so much joy and fortitude.
I am a 40 mum, maths teacher. I write, draw and do embrodery and creative craft in general. I have always struggled with perfectionism and haven’t do any of these things that i love in years ! I discovered your channel a few days ago and your’re helping me redescover myself and my love for them. You give me confidance again. Thank you so very much for that! Hugs from Belgium (sorry for my english, as french is my first tongue)
He’s truly a good man that truly wants the best for everyone.. I’m a new embroiderer, 35, fashion designer and I’ve been drawing all my favorite things in my house since I found his Channel just yesterday!!! I am drawing them so well I’m surprised at myself and enjoying this new self sooo much I’m starting to believe drawing is my next best thing besides embroidery and being a plant mom 🌱Finally feel like I belong in the world. My purpose found! 🎉🎉🎉❤❤❤
Something that ended up helping me was getting an uncomfortably big sketchbook. I bought an overly big sketchbook because that's all there was. I thought I would struggle using it. But having the extra room, to make big sweeping marks. Wow what a game changer. I also decided to make it imperfect and draw/paint ANYTHING that came to me. It's my favorite sketchbook to work in now. It's a creative playground. As it should be.
I JUST did this like 2 weeks ago! I used to use small - small/medium sketchbooks and I recently purchased a large sketchbook. I don't feel as confined and I can put a whole bunch of doodles on one page. Then when I am ready to try to work on an actual project, I have lots of space to work with.
@@elkforests That's awesome! You think it would be overwhelming but you quickly get used to the idea of it and run with the freedom 😀 Have a great night!
36 years ago my art teacher told me I have no talent for art. I fully believed that for 30 years. Then I took up acrylic painting and I was quite good at it and even sold some paintings! I've not been able to paint for a while because of family commitments and it's been so hard! That is changing now. I can paint, I am an acrylic artist but, I can't draw. I always wanted to draw, and then I found you 😊 Here's to you and thankyou for coming into my life just when I needed you 😀 Can't wait to get back into that wonderful zone 😄
Not sure this is exactly what you portrayed buy my fear has always been the beginning of a new sketchbook. I always felt my first few (sometimes more) pages were really bad while I worked out what the paper felt like and what I wanted to use the sketchbook for. So my hint to trick my fear was to start at the back and work my way forward. It worked for me and now I can start a new book with excitement because I know that my interactions with this sketchbook only get better and better.
Honestly looking through my sketchbooks and project books I realise that ten bad drawings look as good as one good drawing. And the more I fill up my sketchbooks with, good and bad, the happier I am to look back and see my progress.
Thanks for the advice! Like so many others, I loved drawing when I was young but stopped when I thought it was time for "grown up" things like college and career. I'm 51 now, my Dad passed away, and I decided to try drawing again because life is short and I can't procrastinate on hobbies I love. Taking time to draw each day has been a therapeutic gift to myself.
❤you are the Best of encouraging making...... And we need this so much,in todays world.... I like your Videos very much!!!💪many greetings from Switzerland 😊
Ohhhh, those infinite choices, infinite beginnings. Instead of saying that it paralyzed me, I say "my brain explodes," because of all the stuff that I could choose! The best advise that I was ever given for painting, although I guess this only works with oils and acrylics, is to mix two colors of paint, the colors don't matter, then paint your entire canvas that color. Once it dries, you no longer have that pristine, perfect, white surface that you're afraid of messing up. You know have a completely "messed up" surface that is still completely usable. It really helps relieve the stress. Now I just need to figure out a way to do that with my new drawing and calligraphy notebooks! :)
Two years ago I sat down to write a book. I’d never written a book before. Had a rough idea but nothing outlined. Two years later and writing nearly every single day (sometimes for 15 mins or eight hours), I’m in my final edit of a 200k book as the first book in a series. If I wouldn’t have sat down every day I wouldn’t be here now. Those little moments of dedication really do add up. Love your channel thanks for inspiring me to get my midori journal out and begin drawing even though I’ve never been good at drawing but I’m just gonna set myself free on this like I did with my book. You can do anything if you set your mind to it and show up every day. 😊
Your video is very inspirational. I have a God given talent for art that runs in my family. My Grandmother had it, my dad inherited it, I have inherent it and now my daughter has it as well. The problem is my dad and I have wasted many years not drawing or painting. To me this is so true. Just the thought of what should I draw? Or will it meet my expectations is so discouraging to a person. It's a fear for something so silly. I think a lot about if I had practiced every day, where would I had been with my art after so many years. I try to encourage my daughter to keep at it while she is still young and doesn't have so many other responsibilities yet. Because for me. I still have to find the time, never mind just conquering the fear of a blank page. But I really must get to it again. Thanks for this video. It really made me think about getting started again.
Talking about not doing or beginning a project, is all about "perfectionism", not good enough, possible mistakes etc, until i stumbled on Zentangle. This has changed me forever. I call it meditative art, merely drawing lines that intersect which starts off looking like nothing, until you get the hang of it then begin to colour in and suddenly, you see a palm tree emerge out of crooked inter joining lines!! So the goal is not perfectionism, but creating extraordinarily, the best!!😂❤ Try it, then you'll understand. Enjoy your playfulness😂.
Soo relate to this Danny. I fit into the bracket of people whos day job/family commitments means less time to practice art. And when I do get the time I feel soo pressured to create some great piece or I feel I have to squeeze all aspects of learning art into 1 precious hour!!😬 I usually end up dismissing everything and end up doing nothing😒. Im going to take my sketch book to work tomorrow and start filling in my lunch hour with some simple line work😊. I will no longer sit and fear the blank page!!👍😁
This is exactly me as well! The pressure is on and then instead of creating I end up on the couch watching a series or a film... and then afterwards I beat myself up because I wasted that precious time... 😒
Comforting to know I'm not alone👍😊. I do get frustrated though. Would love the ability to put everything on hold just so I could actually apply some time to draw. I find its the hussle and bussle of life which is what kills my imagination and ability to be creative(And no its not a lame excuse😒)
When did we ever meet? This video sounds like you know me inside out! Thank you for voicing everything holding me back from my art and for giving me a glimmer of confidence and hope that it's not too late and that I can still do it.
Best tip I ever got was to number the pages. When I get a new notebook/sketchbook I air through the pages and number them so I have already broken it in when I start using it.
I always seem to find a distraction away from starting my drawing. I like the idea of small squares and, just like a chocolate biscuit, once I start drawing I know I won’t stop at one square. So I’m going to try your approach and do one square to start.
I sometimes just even start with a word. I call this exercise word on word. Each time I come into the document, I will read it, and put down a word. Showing up. That way has really helped me, but even then my inner critic gets going. So, I don't delete any of them. And I see where they go.
When I join live figure drawing/painting workshop, the day’s better ones are, more often than not, among the 2-5 min drawings we do on large newsprint paper at the beginning to loosen up. There’s no time to overthink, just have to start, then the pent-up energy starts flowing shortly; probably that’s why. Mimicking some artists’ beautiful works online with stiff shoulders and doubt about ourselves is a totally opposite method; for me, it won’t work.
Im thx u bc I’ve been Stuck for 1 yr bc of a few things I did to take next steps. 1 be a vendor x 2 with no success sell prints that cost me $1000 I had saved for 4 yrs. 2. Family was mad at me bc spent that $$ 3 if I try to paint for myself it’s not great but my commissions are very good but only 1-2 a year. So I’ve been very discouraged. But I now know to treat it like exercise and do it for 15 min a day to start just drawing again so I can get my brain at it again. Thx u god bless.
I always remind myself - process over product, something is better than nothing. Best thing my 2-D art prof ever did was have the class do a pre-instructional drawing (firsrt day of class), do a post-instructional drawing towards the end of the term, then do a critque comparing the two. People who thought they didn't improve were stunned at how much they got better just by showing up to class and drawing.
This was a much needed video. Thank you. I had a graphic novel idea in my head for almost 10 years, and I had the fear of starting...but one day I decided to just work on writing the script little by little. I have 12 issues written, and though it's just the rough drafts, now I have something to revise. My story is finally coming together because I decided to start.
Thank you soooo much. You changed my views on life all together, just got to know about my problem on perfectionism and the ways you tell how to handle them are so simple and incredible. It was always getting comfortable with failure cause it is inevitable and to actually enjoy the uncertanity of the journey rather than the final destination. Thank you again✨
It's like you're in my head. This, ALL of this, is exactly where my brain has been for weeks, and it's been bringing me way way down. Thank you for your encouraging words and insight. So very helpful.
This was amazing. Brilliant. I have analysis paralysis over everything and it is exhausting. I do feel like it infects everything and my idea of perfectionism destroys the fun. I have a problem of critiquing other people's work and fearing that my work will look amateurish like other amateurs and that destroys me from starting. And that's ridiculous because I am an amateur....I just don't want to look like one! I'm going to replay this video over and over because it is so helpful. I need to let myself screw up and not be afraid of it. Thank you so much.
I seem to struggle with perfectionism too....I feel like everything around me has to be perfect before I can let myself sit down and be creative.....there's dishes, or vacuuming, or clutter, or dusting, or laundry, etc, etc, etc....I too am an amateur. It's funny how so much of the time Danny's essays and videos seem be plucked straight from my head....there's a fear that holds me back. When you're an amateur, there's also a fear of never getting better, or good enough. It's really hard to have such a strong desire and yet feel so paralyzed.
I tried Nanowrimo this year for the first time and finished in 27 days. So I am a winner! Got the badge today. But I really am totally at sea about how to start my illustrated journal. i have always wanted to add colour and the lovely scenery around me in my diary. i dont know how to though and your tip on filling the page with 'bad' drawings is really helpful. i do hope i start this year sometime... 🤞
I love your style Danny. Your manner makes the content compelling. I am a subscriber to your essays but watching you speak it is so much better. Thankyou from Australia
Great video. I like the part about feeling like an imposter - see what you can get away with - that's a great way to override that feeling, and really spoke to me as an approach to try. Thanks Danny, I love how positive and encouraging you are
Since I discovered your channel, I'm starting a few days ago to take my sketchbook again and draw, because you reveal something in common to us artist graphist etc.. Thank you so much for your advice.
Thanks for this great encouraging message. All of those feelings of inadequacy coursed through me when I began sketching. To conquer my self-doubt, I cracked open an album of my kindergarten drawings…and recalled how fearless I was back then, scribbling stick figures and wonky houses. It,wasn’t about making “art”…it was about playing with crayons. So joyful. So I drew stick figures and wonky shapes in my sketchbook for a long time. It was cathartic.
Hi, I want you to know the tone of your voice is so calming. It's story telling quality. Consider reading your essays on RUclips . I tend to get lost when reading, thinking about all the things I need to be doing at that moment. When I listen to your videos you definitely capture my attention and I learn so much more. Thank you for all your hard work.
Watched this after your procrastination video and halfway through felt I should be DOING, not just watching, so I did a rough sketch of you on screen, while riding the train. Thanks for the constant coaching and encouragement.
Just show up! I record my hours of Just Showing Up. Present yourself to the table and see what happens. Even if not much happens, the record of hours is incentive in itself. And by Just Showing Up, stuff does happen!!!
I just bought your book "you do you" and I just love it. You are so encouraging and so entertaining that I watch you every day just to remain positive. I cannot draw so I am hoping that I will learn. Thank you for everything you do.
Thank you so much for explaning so well the origin of the creative blockages and how to overcome it ! I can see myself in all those blockages, overthinking becoming paralysis, and also perfectionism with my fear not to start with the perfect drawings. I understand so much better my fears now. Thank you ! You really explain so well and you give real tips to pass through it. And I think most of the things you’ve said can be applied to a lot of other things in life, not just to creative blockages. It is really interesting and so helpful ! Thank you so much for your kindness !
I don't try to compare myself to others. But I like their ideas and methods. I'm just getting started, and failing is almost every time so far. But that's okay. I like your advice about the monkey in your head. Regardless, I'm going to keep drawing no matter what. I know my drawings suck but I'm a beginner too! So wish me luck. Thank you, Danny Gregory!
I'm a big fan of creative play and was doodling as I listened, just going with the flow. Recently I read Emile Zola's semi-autobiographical novel His Masterpiece (free download from Project Gutenberg), which really gets into the meat of artistic perfectionism and paralysis. The same goes for the movie Cezanne et Moi. Both highly recommended.
When I have this with writing, I just start a "stream of consciousness' write and see what comes of it. Sometimes I find a gem of a line or a few sentences that are "good" and run with those. Sometimes, I wad it up and give it to the cat to play with. In art, its a little harder for me. Since I started keeping a "dragabout" where I allow myself to be free, it happens less. I do have a sketchbook that I keep to allow myself a period of time to entertain my perfectionist side. It works for me.
Professionally I do art for a living. When I do my own art, I work differently due to the fact that I do more experiments and try new medias. I find I end up fixing more then putting down the art as I would like. However, the end result is pretty good. So get started and adjust as you go along.
Thank You so much! You made my day! I am a procrastinator and a perfectionist but I need to make mistakes I know and then I learn I am always learning. I try not to judge myself but I do. Its my mindset that I have to change its ingrained unfortunately and even when people have told me that my art is good I dont believe them!. Thats a terrible feeling. I hate putting my Art out into the world to be judged as to me I like it and I have a fear of Judgement. I have had it all my life. Its time to change so Thank you for the encouraging words. I plan just to do my Art my way and the way I enjoy doing it. Great Suggestions. Thanks for sharing. Time for my art!
Thank you. I needed this video a lot. I have had Aphantasia but am slowly recovering. I can see vague impressions in my head with descriptions. I have decided to become a writer instead of a drawer. This video made it possible for me to open up my mind and get back into the writing process. Many thanks again.
The poem “The little boy” by Helen Buckley goes a long way to explain why fear of the blank page might be a problem for many people 😢It is often used in training for people working with under fives to show that it is the process that is important, not the end result. Child careers and teachers don’t realise the damage they are doing when their art sessions result in every child taking home identical pictures or collage which have been copied or done hand over hand, showing the child where to place things 😢What parent would want a mother’s/ Father’s Day/ Easter card that is identical to everyone else’s? A card where a child is able to scribble and paint with wild abandon is far more valuable. When children are shown what to do and have to work to set expectations they lose their ability to be creative x
I never had a problem with a blank canvas - i come to it with a desire already- something i want to paint. 😊oil paintings are very easy to correct or paint over many times.
I’m not afraid or worried what people think it’s all the should oughts and musts that get in the way. I’m too Tired to get to drawing after I do them. Dumb I know but there I am
I would just like to say i just clicked subscribe i also find your videos very informative I now need to find the motivation to keep going forward with my NEW hobby thank you for the videos by the way
This may be controversial but I have started using ai to help me when I have a drawing block. It started as a bit of fun for myself, family and friends to come up with the most random ideas. It has helped my imagination run wild for when I’m ready to hit the page
I really enjoy how AI looks and it can be a fun reference tool, but like any reference tool it can lead to procrastination. I don’t think we’re ever really ready to hit the page and we never will be. Only drawing for real will help you feel more ready to draw.
What do you do with the fear of succeeding? It crippled me to the point of not getting a craft book published some years ago. I would really appreciate it if you would help me with this. Thanks!
@@SketchBookSkool LOL....I thought you could tell ME. I had a publisher interested in my book, but I froze solid....I just couldn't turn in my work. I KNEW they would accept it, but I ran and hid from succeeding in a BIG way. I have had years of regrets.
Danny, you've done it. You've totally gotten my gears spinning. Now I wish I'd done NaNoWriMo after all this year. Imagine a story about how a cheap red pen saves the world. And, of course, the story starts by letting you know that...
![Jack Harlow - Hello Miss Johnson [Official Music Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Q86_nlRoIGw/mqdefault.jpg)
If you'd like to learn how to draw, watch my free tutorials on this channel. Here's the playlist: ruclips.net/p/PLINz5dTN9-0tS0FEA3UhAB4NVg7oiD6Iy
I am 35. I am not a writer, I am not an artist. I express, with disjointed words and wonky doodles. I have no mastery and no technical tools. Often the thought of starting now, feels like a joke, another one of those escapist fantasies. But there is something in my core that tells me I should try. Thank you for everything you've said, Sir. It's all very real.
Don’t expect to be good right away. I’ve been practicing for four years and finally see some improvement! And your way younger than I am!
Sounds like you're a writer & artist who isn't writing or drawing. Perhaps start with crayons to do both & see where it goes. I send you oodles of writer/artist vibes from my creative genius to yours! Been there. Still a work-in-progress.
@@DeAzul7902 :-) thank you
@@carolstefan7662 :-) encouraging to know you have kept at it. It's daunting, but inconsequential as they may be, the silliest pictures I make bring so much joy and fortitude.
It really does sound like you are a writer and artist who just hasn't tried yet. Don't be afraid. Just do it. The joy in trying is immeasurable!
I am a 40 mum, maths teacher. I write, draw and do embrodery and creative craft in general. I have always struggled with perfectionism and haven’t do any of these things that i love in years ! I discovered your channel a few days ago and your’re helping me redescover myself and my love for them. You give me confidance again. Thank you so very much for that! Hugs from Belgium (sorry for my english, as french is my first tongue)
He’s truly a good man that truly wants the best for everyone.. I’m a new embroiderer, 35, fashion designer and I’ve been drawing all my favorite things in my house since I found his Channel just yesterday!!! I am drawing them so well I’m surprised at myself and enjoying this new self sooo much I’m starting to believe drawing is my next best thing besides embroidery and being a plant mom 🌱Finally feel like I belong in the world. My purpose found! 🎉🎉🎉❤❤❤
Something that ended up helping me was getting an uncomfortably big sketchbook. I bought an overly big sketchbook because that's all there was. I thought I would struggle using it. But having the extra room, to make big sweeping marks. Wow what a game changer. I also decided to make it imperfect and draw/paint ANYTHING that came to me. It's my favorite sketchbook to work in now. It's a creative playground. As it should be.
I JUST did this like 2 weeks ago! I used to use small - small/medium sketchbooks and I recently purchased a large sketchbook. I don't feel as confined and I can put a whole bunch of doodles on one page. Then when I am ready to try to work on an actual project, I have lots of space to work with.
@@elkforests That's awesome! You think it would be overwhelming but you quickly get used to the idea of it and run with the freedom 😀 Have a great night!
Wonderful tip! It reminded me of a video I made with my son long ago: ruclips.net/video/QxYWuWBnPRU/видео.html
@@SketchBookSkool❤👍🤗
@@SketchBookSkoolJust watched the video with your son. Hilarious!
36 years ago my art teacher told me I have no talent for art. I fully believed that for 30 years. Then I took up acrylic painting and I was quite good at it and even sold some paintings! I've not been able to paint for a while because of family commitments and it's been so hard! That is changing now. I can paint, I am an acrylic artist but, I can't draw. I always wanted to draw, and then I found you 😊 Here's to you and thankyou for coming into my life just when I needed you 😀 Can't wait to get back into that wonderful zone 😄
Not sure this is exactly what you portrayed buy my fear has always been the beginning of a new sketchbook. I always felt my first few (sometimes more) pages were really bad while I worked out what the paper felt like and what I wanted to use the sketchbook for. So my hint to trick my fear was to start at the back and work my way forward. It worked for me and now I can start a new book with excitement because I know that my interactions with this sketchbook only get better and better.
Honestly looking through my sketchbooks and project books I realise that ten bad drawings look as good as one good drawing. And the more I fill up my sketchbooks with, good and bad, the happier I am to look back and see my progress.
So true!
Thanks for the advice! Like so many others, I loved drawing when I was young but stopped when I thought it was time for "grown up" things like college and career. I'm 51 now, my Dad passed away, and I decided to try drawing again because life is short and I can't procrastinate on hobbies I love. Taking time to draw each day has been a therapeutic gift to myself.
❤you are the Best of encouraging making......
And we need this so much,in todays world....
I like your Videos very much!!!💪many greetings from Switzerland 😊
Ohhhh, those infinite choices, infinite beginnings. Instead of saying that it paralyzed me, I say "my brain explodes," because of all the stuff that I could choose!
The best advise that I was ever given for painting, although I guess this only works with oils and acrylics, is to mix two colors of paint, the colors don't matter, then paint your entire canvas that color. Once it dries, you no longer have that pristine, perfect, white surface that you're afraid of messing up. You know have a completely "messed up" surface that is still completely usable. It really helps relieve the stress.
Now I just need to figure out a way to do that with my new drawing and calligraphy notebooks! :)
Two years ago I sat down to write a book. I’d never written a book before. Had a rough idea but nothing outlined. Two years later and writing nearly every single day (sometimes for 15 mins or eight hours), I’m in my final edit of a 200k book as the first book in a series. If I wouldn’t have sat down every day I wouldn’t be here now. Those little moments of dedication really do add up. Love your channel thanks for inspiring me to get my midori journal out and begin drawing even though I’ve never been good at drawing but I’m just gonna set myself free on this like I did with my book. You can do anything if you set your mind to it and show up every day. 😊
Your video is very inspirational. I have a God given talent for art that runs in my family. My Grandmother had it, my dad inherited it, I have inherent it and now my daughter has it as well. The problem is my dad and I have wasted many years not drawing or painting. To me this is so true. Just the thought of what should I draw? Or will it meet my expectations is so discouraging to a person. It's a fear for something so silly. I think a lot about if I had practiced every day, where would I had been with my art after so many years. I try to encourage my daughter to keep at it while she is still young and doesn't have so many other responsibilities yet. Because for me. I still have to find the time, never mind just conquering the fear of a blank page. But I really must get to it again. Thanks for this video. It really made me think about getting started again.
Talking about not doing or beginning a project, is all about "perfectionism", not good enough, possible mistakes etc, until i stumbled on Zentangle. This has changed me forever. I call it meditative art, merely drawing lines that intersect which starts off looking like nothing, until you get the hang of it then begin to colour in and suddenly, you see a palm tree emerge out of crooked inter joining lines!! So the goal is not perfectionism, but creating extraordinarily, the best!!😂❤ Try it, then you'll understand. Enjoy your playfulness😂.
All your Videos are helping and motivating me a lot. I'm drawing with more daring and self-confidence. Thank you sooo much 😊
This was exactly the pep talk I needed to get started, I thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Soo relate to this Danny. I fit into the bracket of people whos day job/family commitments means less time to practice art. And when I do get the time I feel soo pressured to create some great piece or I feel I have to squeeze all aspects of learning art into 1 precious hour!!😬 I usually end up dismissing everything and end up doing nothing😒. Im going to take my sketch book to work tomorrow and start filling in my lunch hour with some simple line work😊. I will no longer sit and fear the blank page!!👍😁
This is exactly me as well! The pressure is on and then instead of creating I end up on the couch watching a series or a film... and then afterwards I beat myself up because I wasted that precious time... 😒
Comforting to know I'm not alone👍😊. I do get frustrated though. Would love the ability to put everything on hold just so I could actually apply some time to draw. I find its the hussle and bussle of life which is what kills my imagination and ability to be creative(And no its not a lame excuse😒)
I love your suggestions and the lovely way you encourage belief in the process. Thank you very much ❤
When did we ever meet? This video sounds like you know me inside out! Thank you for voicing everything holding me back from my art and for giving me a glimmer of confidence and hope that it's not too late and that I can still do it.
Best tip I ever got was to number the pages. When I get a new notebook/sketchbook I air through the pages and number them so I have already broken it in when I start using it.
When all else fails, scribble to warm up your hand/brain. Relax, open up your shoulder & move from there....❤
I always seem to find a distraction away from starting my drawing. I like the idea of small squares and, just like a chocolate biscuit, once I start drawing I know I won’t stop at one square. So I’m going to try your approach and do one square to start.
I sometimes just even start with a word. I call this exercise word on word. Each time I come into the document, I will read it, and put down a word. Showing up. That way has really helped me, but even then my inner critic gets going. So, I don't delete any of them. And I see where they go.
Thank you for this video! I really need these messages sometimes. I'm so glad you are here on RUclips.
When I join live figure drawing/painting workshop, the day’s better ones are, more often than not, among the 2-5 min drawings we do on large newsprint paper at the beginning to loosen up. There’s no time to overthink, just have to start, then the pent-up energy starts flowing shortly; probably that’s why.
Mimicking some artists’ beautiful works online with stiff shoulders and doubt about ourselves is a totally opposite method; for me, it won’t work.
This will definitely be helpful to come over and start anew...Thanks n regards.
Im thx u bc I’ve been Stuck for 1 yr bc of a few things I did to take next steps.
1 be a vendor x 2 with no success sell prints that cost me $1000 I had saved for 4 yrs.
2. Family was mad at me bc spent that $$
3 if I try to paint for myself it’s not great but my commissions are very good but only 1-2 a year.
So I’ve been very discouraged. But I now know to treat it like exercise and do it for 15 min a day to start just drawing again so I can get my brain at it again.
Thx u god bless.
Done is better than perfect!
I always remind myself - process over product, something is better than nothing. Best thing my 2-D art prof ever did was have the class do a pre-instructional drawing (firsrt day of class), do a post-instructional drawing towards the end of the term, then do a critque comparing the two. People who thought they didn't improve were stunned at how much they got better just by showing up to class and drawing.
This was a much needed video. Thank you. I had a graphic novel idea in my head for almost 10 years, and I had the fear of starting...but one day I decided to just work on writing the script little by little. I have 12 issues written, and though it's just the rough drafts, now I have something to revise. My story is finally coming together because I decided to start.
Thank you soooo much. You changed my views on life all together, just got to know about my problem on perfectionism and the ways you tell how to handle them are so simple and incredible. It was always getting comfortable with failure cause it is inevitable and to actually enjoy the uncertanity of the journey rather than the final destination. Thank you again✨
It's like you're in my head. This, ALL of this, is exactly where my brain has been for weeks, and it's been bringing me way way down. Thank you for your encouraging words and insight. So very helpful.
As Salvador Dali said PERFECTION.! Dont bother you will never ACHIEVE IT.!!!
This was amazing. Brilliant. I have analysis paralysis over everything and it is exhausting. I do feel like it infects everything and my idea of perfectionism destroys the fun. I have a problem of critiquing other people's work and fearing that my work will look amateurish like other amateurs and that destroys me from starting. And that's ridiculous because I am an amateur....I just don't want to look like one! I'm going to replay this video over and over because it is so helpful. I need to let myself screw up and not be afraid of it. Thank you so much.
I seem to struggle with perfectionism too....I feel like everything around me has to be perfect before I can let myself sit down and be creative.....there's dishes, or vacuuming, or clutter, or dusting, or laundry, etc, etc, etc....I too am an amateur. It's funny how so much of the time Danny's essays and videos seem be plucked straight from my head....there's a fear that holds me back. When you're an amateur, there's also a fear of never getting better, or good enough. It's really hard to have such a strong desire and yet feel so paralyzed.
Someone else like me! While watching every time I thought “but what about this…” that was your next point, love your videos ❤
I’m just one step behind you.
Your videos are very helpful and stimulants! Thank you very much!❤
I tried Nanowrimo this year for the first time and finished in 27 days. So I am a winner! Got the badge today. But I really am totally at sea about how to start my illustrated journal. i have always wanted to add colour and the lovely scenery around me in my diary. i dont know how to though and your tip on filling the page with 'bad' drawings is really helpful. i do hope i start this year sometime... 🤞
Have a look at Nature drawing with John Muir Laws
We've never met yet you know me so well. Thanks for this essay.
I love your style Danny. Your manner makes the content compelling. I am a subscriber to your essays but watching you speak it is so much better. Thankyou from Australia
Awesome! Thank you!
Great video. I like the part about feeling like an imposter - see what you can get away with - that's a great way to override that feeling, and really spoke to me as an approach to try. Thanks Danny, I love how positive and encouraging you are
Since I discovered your channel, I'm starting a few days ago to take my sketchbook again and draw, because you reveal something in common to us artist graphist etc.. Thank you so much for your advice.
Thanks for this great encouraging message. All of those feelings of inadequacy coursed through me when I began sketching. To conquer my self-doubt, I cracked open an album of my kindergarten drawings…and recalled how fearless I was back then, scribbling stick figures and wonky houses. It,wasn’t about making “art”…it was about playing with crayons. So joyful. So I drew stick figures and wonky shapes in my sketchbook for a long time. It was cathartic.
Thank you for this pep talk. Ive been neglecting my sketchbook you give me the motivation to try again!
Hi, I want you to know the tone of your voice is so calming. It's story telling quality. Consider reading your essays on RUclips . I tend to get lost when reading, thinking about all the things I need to be doing at that moment. When I listen to your videos you definitely capture my attention and I learn so much more. Thank you for all your hard work.
Your lesson was absolutely beautifully said, sir. And it's applicable to life. Thank you for sharing your wisdom. 🙏👍👍👍
Glad it was helpful!
The scripted essays are top. The interviews and collabs are top. But this style of video/pod is gold!
This topic also... So vital, too prescient!
You such a wise gentleman.. I could listen to you for hours.
Watched this after your procrastination video and halfway through felt I should be DOING, not just watching, so I did a rough sketch of you on screen, while riding the train. Thanks for the constant coaching and encouragement.
Just show up! I record my hours of Just Showing Up. Present yourself to the table and see what happens. Even if not much happens, the record of hours is incentive in itself. And by Just Showing Up, stuff does happen!!!
I was inspired by your video. I let go of judgement and expectation and just started on my blank page and it felt great. Thank you.
Thanks for your all positive vibes! ❤❤One like is not enough!👏👏👏👏👏❤❤
I was looking for the chocolate orangutan miracle, but found your great video! Thanks so much.😃
I just bought your book "you do you" and I just love it. You are so encouraging and so entertaining that I watch you every day just to remain positive. I cannot draw so I am hoping that I will learn. Thank you for everything you do.
Thank you so much for explaning so well the origin of the creative blockages and how to overcome it !
I can see myself in all those blockages, overthinking becoming paralysis, and also perfectionism with my fear not to start with the perfect drawings.
I understand so much better my fears now. Thank you !
You really explain so well and you give real tips to pass through it.
And I think most of the things you’ve said can be applied to a lot of other things in life, not just to creative blockages.
It is really interesting and so helpful !
Thank you so much for your kindness !
I don't try to compare myself to others. But I like their ideas and methods. I'm just getting started, and failing is almost every time so far. But that's okay. I like your advice about the monkey in your head. Regardless, I'm going to keep drawing no matter what. I know my drawings suck but I'm a beginner too! So wish me luck. Thank you, Danny Gregory!
I love this video!!! You have a lot of wisdom, and I am thankful that you shared it! Thank you!
Just do it for the plot
Thanks for the peptalk! I wish I had this 40 years ago at school 😊 better now than never
Saving this to watch again and again every time I feel stymied. Thanks Danny, you are always spot on.
I'm a big fan of creative play and was doodling as I listened, just going with the flow. Recently I read Emile Zola's semi-autobiographical novel His Masterpiece (free download from Project Gutenberg), which really gets into the meat of artistic perfectionism and paralysis. The same goes for the movie Cezanne et Moi. Both highly recommended.
When I have this with writing, I just start a "stream of consciousness' write and see what comes of it. Sometimes I find a gem of a line or a few sentences that are "good" and run with those. Sometimes, I wad it up and give it to the cat to play with. In art, its a little harder for me. Since I started keeping a "dragabout" where I allow myself to be free, it happens less. I do have a sketchbook that I keep to allow myself a period of time to entertain my perfectionist side. It works for me.
Professionally I do art for a living. When I do my own art, I work differently due to the fact that I do more experiments and try new medias. I find I end up fixing more then putting down the art as I would like. However, the end result is pretty good. So get started and adjust as you go along.
It doesn't matter if it's good, what matters is that you are doing it.
This is somthing so greate i'm gona paint it on my wall.
Maybe I should make a video called "Fear of a blank wall"!
Nice idea@@SketchBookSkool
I really love your drawings in squares idea. It worked for me. Its so encouaging and satisfying! Thankyou Danny!
I really needed to hear this today. I’m going to ‘shake it off’ and begin. Thank you.
Thank You so much! You made my day! I am a procrastinator and a perfectionist but I need to make mistakes I know and then I learn I am always learning. I try not to judge myself but I do. Its my mindset that I have to change its ingrained unfortunately and even when people have told me that my art is good I dont believe them!. Thats a terrible feeling. I hate putting my Art out into the world to be judged as to me I like it and I have a fear of Judgement. I have had it all my life. Its time to change so Thank you for the encouraging words. I plan just to do my Art my way and the way I enjoy doing it. Great Suggestions. Thanks for sharing. Time for my art!
Thank you for your recommendations
Thank you so much Danny 🙏🏻😌🌸🍃
This video was made for me. Thank you so much. I feel so seen.
Thank you. I needed this video a lot. I have had Aphantasia but am slowly recovering. I can see vague impressions in my head with descriptions. I have decided to become a writer instead of a drawer. This video made it possible for me to open up my mind and get back into the writing process. Many thanks again.
I can relate to all of that.
The poem “The little boy” by Helen Buckley goes a long way to explain why fear of the blank page might be a problem for many people 😢It is often used in training for people working with under fives to show that it is the process that is important, not the end result. Child careers and teachers don’t realise the damage they are doing when their art sessions result in every child taking home identical pictures or collage which have been copied or done hand over hand, showing the child where to place things 😢What parent would want a mother’s/ Father’s Day/ Easter card that is identical to everyone else’s? A card where a child is able to scribble and paint with wild abandon is far more valuable. When children are shown what to do and have to work to set expectations they lose their ability to be creative x
Loving this pep talk Danny!
I’m saving it in my library.
Thank you. 😅
I never had a problem with a blank canvas - i come to it with a desire already- something i want to paint. 😊oil paintings are very easy to correct or paint over many times.
Oh Zoe...😢
Thank you❤❤❤
Love your videos.
Thank you for this - glad I found you
Great video. Thanks for the confidence boost 👍
Thank you for this. Very much.
Your words are quite inspiring and elevating sir. Thanks for this video pep talk 😊
Thank you Danny!
Im impressed thank you
Thank you for your advice! It always helps me and inspires me!
'Just wonderful! Thank you!❤
Endings are elusive, middles are nowhere to be found, but worst of all is to begin, to begin, to begin.
Thank you for saving me from myself.
Awesome strategies! Thank you 👍
I’m not afraid or worried what people think it’s all the should oughts and musts that get in the way. I’m too Tired to get to drawing after I do them. Dumb I know but there I am
I would just like to say i just clicked subscribe i also find your videos very informative I now need to find the motivation to keep going forward with my NEW hobby thank you for the videos by the way
Welcome aboard! Join us every Thursday for Draw with Me. That’ll keep you going.
You are priceless! 💕 thank you…
You are inspiring. Thank you for all you say
You are so welcome
Danny is the best
Awesome 👌❤
This may be controversial but I have started using ai to help me when I have a drawing block. It started as a bit of fun for myself, family and friends to come up with the most random ideas. It has helped my imagination run wild for when I’m ready to hit the page
How do you use AI?
I really enjoy how AI looks and it can be a fun reference tool, but like any reference tool it can lead to procrastination. I don’t think we’re ever really ready to hit the page and we never will be. Only drawing for real will help you feel more ready to draw.
@@elaineporter182I did reply but looks like my comments were deleted 🙏
Thank you.
Great channel.
Thank you
You're welcome
I love him❤
Any tips on how to keep a pencil/ pen handy?? Mine disappear and how do you draw without your pencils?
- how to keep pencil attached to sketchbook
Try this clip: geni.us/5Zudgx
I love this video ( exclamation point times a thousand million)
What do you do with the fear of succeeding? It crippled me to the point of not getting a craft book published some years ago. I would really appreciate it if you would help me with this. Thanks!
Tell me more. Fear of succeeding?
@@SketchBookSkool LOL....I thought you could tell ME. I had a publisher interested in my book, but I froze solid....I just couldn't turn in my work. I KNEW they would accept it, but I ran and hid from succeeding in a BIG way. I have had years of regrets.
Danny, you've done it. You've totally gotten my gears spinning. Now I wish I'd done NaNoWriMo after all this year. Imagine a story about how a cheap red pen saves the world. And, of course, the story starts by letting you know that...