It is even more unfortunate that, for our skills to improve, we must make things that ultimately we will feel embarrassed about putting out into the world.

This, I have observed, is an essential part of the process. The more you create, the more skills you develop, the less embarrassment you will feel. There is no shortcut. Doing the work is the solution.

The Skills Gap

Understanding your skills gap, and taking actions to close it, will help. I periodically do a creative skills audit. My first in 2022 when it was clear that composition was my blind spot. I found a training course which helped build my understanding of balance and focal points and in turn built my confidence. This is the most recent one captured in my sketchbook.

If this would be helpful, I have created a template with instructions for your own skills audit. Download it here.

Why is this important

As a creative, progress works differently. You make work that falls short of your own standards until, over time, your skills catch up with your sense of what looks good. This is especially difficult for those moving from corporate jobs or employment where there are clear objectives, and your skills and education help define your place. To be a working creative you need to cultivate a mindset of exploration and development. If you are used to being good at your job it can be jarring to lose the familiar markers of progress.

Perfection is the enemy

The more embarrassment and frustration I could tolerate, the faster I seemed to progress. I have shared, and will continue to share, work that does not yet meet the stand I am aiming for. But each piece is proof that I am doing the work.

An early painting hangs on my studio wall, two daffodil heads against a dark green background. I won’t show it to you or share it publicly. It is a sub-par painting that serves one purpose, to remind me that my skills have improved and with continued work, I will keep improving.

Make art even if you’re not happy with. Rinse and repeat. Learn where your skills need development. Be embarrassed and lean into it. Embrace the failures, because hidden within them is the path to life as a working creative.

For some it might be difficult to move from an environment where there are clear objectives, and your skills and education help define your place. To be a working creative you need to cultivate a mindset of exploration and development. If you are used to being good at your job it can be jarring to lose the familiar markers of progress.