What lights you up when it comes to your art? What dreams do you hold for your creativity?

I’ve recently discovered that many artists do not know their own definition of success. And yet, when we have this knowledge and can then take steps toward it, we are closer to serving others through honoring that which fuels us and lights us up.

Since I can remember I always assumed I’d become a teacher. I wanted some kind of steady income, health insurance, and time to make ART. I loved being in a classroom, so why not?

I spent many years enjoying that lifestyle. It allowed me freedom to explore different ideas in my art without the pressure of “the sale” or what was “commercial.” I exhibited art in group shows and slowly, subtly, I began to want something else. My definition of success began to change.

I felt frustrated by the bureaucracy of education systems that paid limited lip service to the arts and other “extracurriculars.” I was disheartened that so many students AND their parents felt a disenfranchisement from the arts. And I decided to dream bigger: how could I help more people? Artist Strong was born.

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As I poured my heart and soul into Artist Strong, I began to think about selling my art. I wanted to teach AND sell. And that pesky “success” began to look different once again.

Ask yourself: do I want to create and sell full time? What does that really look like for me? When we hold ourselves to a definition of success created by outside influences, or of a time past, it can impact our process. I’m beginning to wonder how many subconscious, unrealized definitions of success are the true source of creative block…

Too many artists can feel like spending time on their art is selfish. So, why would those same artists dedicate any time to reflect on creative goals? The great irony: when you are fully realized and owning and striving towards your hopes and dreams, you give more to others.

Isn’t it more selfish to assume you have nothing to contribute and thus, stop trying? When we are blocked or holding back from those dreams, how do we behave? How do we treat others? I’m pretty sure it’s during these times we contribute less to the world.

Analogous color progress #crab #animalportrait #colorventures Working on small projects like this as part of my webinar teaching series brings my happiness and helps others = win, win for everyone!

A photo posted by Carrie (@artiststrong) on Aug 17, 2016 at 10:45am PDT

I implore you, today, to take ownership and feel proud of your creative goals and dreams. Your creative interests, however big or small, cultivate an environment around you that can enhance the world we share.

As I step into and fully celebrate my personal, ever changing creative hopes and dreams I feel something in me shift. This spark, flame of passion, drive and commitment fuel my work with Artist Strong. My art and Artist Strong are intertwined. I am empowered. I feel confident. And I do more to help the world because I am Artist Strong.

Too many times I’ve heard artists say that unless their art changes the world, it’s not worth making. Or that they don’t deserve to create. What if it isn’t the artwork that changes the world? What if it’s the process of art that unleashes the power already in you?

“How your unique, artist voice can change the world.“ (Click to Tweet)

Be Creatively Courageous: Tell me one way creating opens you up to improving the world we share <3