Week of 7/9 - the art of improving

Hey there!  Today, I wanted to take a break from the pixelated worlds and brushes to talk about something that has been on my mind lately - the art of improving and the remarkable life lessons it has taught me.

As creatives, we are constantly striving to better our craft, fine-tuning our skills, and exploring new styles. But what's fascinating is how this quest for improvement has seamlessly seeped into other aspects of my life. Little did I know that the principles learned while perfecting my art could be so readily applied to being a good husband, employee, son, brother, and most importantly, a father.

1. Embrace the Learning Curve:

Whether it's mastering a complex shading technique or changing a diaper for the first time, improvement always starts with a learning curve. It can be intimidating at first, but once you accept that growth takes time and effort, the journey becomes far more enjoyable. It's essential to remind yourself that you won't be perfect from the get-go, and that's okay!

2. Patience and Perseverance:

Improvement in art is rarely instantaneous. It involves countless hours of practice, making mistakes, and trying again. The same goes for fatherhood and any other role in life. Patience and perseverance are key virtues that help us navigate the challenges that come our way. Embracing this process with a smile on your face makes all the difference.

3. Creativity Breeds Innovation:

As artists, we continuously strive to think outside the box, pushing boundaries and experimenting with new ideas. This creative approach applies to problem-solving in life too. Whether it's finding new ways to bond with your child or tackling a tough project at work, allowing creativity to flourish leads to innovative and fulfilling results.

4. Embracing Critique:

Criticism, when constructive, plays a pivotal role in artistic growth. Learning to accept feedback gracefully and using it to improve one's work is a skill that translates beautifully into fatherhood and personal relationships. Embracing feedback from your partner, children, or colleagues with an open mind fosters trust and nurtures growth in all areas of life.

5. Time Management and Balance:

Balancing art projects, personal life, and relationships can be challenging. However, this delicate juggling act teaches us the value of effective time management. Learning to prioritize and allocate time wisely between creative endeavors and family helps maintain a healthy work-life balance.

6. Celebrating Small Wins:

As artists, we often have big dreams and ambitions. But it's crucial to acknowledge and celebrate the small victories along the way. Similarly, in life, whether it's seeing your child take their first steps or successfully completing a household project, appreciating the little moments adds joy and motivation to the journey.

7. Building Supportive Networks:

Every artist needs a supportive community to thrive, whether it's through art collaborations or online forums. The importance of building a network of support and love extends far beyond the art studio. Surrounding yourself with positive influences and being there for your loved ones creates a strong foundation for a happy and fulfilling life.

In conclusion,

the art of improving isn't just about polishing our creative skills; it's about honing life skills that make us better individuals. As I continue my journey as an illustrator, I find myself applying these learnings to my role as a father, husband, employee, and son. Embracing the learning curve, staying patient, and nurturing creativity have allowed me to grow both as an artist and as a person.

Remember, it's not about reaching the pinnacle of perfection, but rather about enjoying the process of improvement, wherever it may take us. So, let's keep drawing, painting, and living with passion, always striving to be the best version of ourselves in all aspects of life.

Happy creating and happy living!

-Josh