Finding your creative flow can be hard at the best of times, but even more so if you’ve just started a hobby.
The creative journey can bring about bumps along the way but stay focused and don’t lose hope!
If you’re looking to succeed in your crafts, we’ve some hints and tips that could help you take your creativity to the next level.
What Should You Create?
Figuring out what to create if you want to start a creative hobby can be a little overwhelming.
But it doesn’t have to be as confusing as or daunting as it might initially seem.
Pursue Your Interest
If you’re having a hard time picking a skill you want to hone or learn, think about the things that you’re already good at or have an interest in.
For example, if you’re pretty nifty with DIY and woodwork, then it might be worth pursuing further. Sometimes you even have the equipment at home without realizing it.
Alternatively, if you’ve always been interested in graphic design, then now might be the time to get some practice in and become accustomed to programs like Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator.
Recently I picked up some starter candle kits just to try it and they turned out great!
Trust the Process
No matter what level your creative skills are at, there’s sure to be something you’re good at or can get better at.
Many creatives are self-taught and have developed their craft over time – But they were all beginners once!
As long as you’re prepared to put some time aside to practice a hobby, then there’s no telling what you can eventually achieve.
Believe in Yourself
When you first start a project or a hobby, it can be a bit disheartening if something doesn’t go according to plan.
After I got back into watercolor painting after a long break, I was constantly disappointed with the end result as it was completely different than what I’d imagined in my head.
This left me feeling frustrated and insecure about my own skills.
Keep On Going
Despite feeling like this, I ploughed on and kept practicing.
In just a short time, I started seeing improvements in my art and began to believe in myself and my craft.
Focus on the Positive
If you’ve ever felt similar, then don’t lose hope, and keep at it!
Believing in yourself can make all the difference…
Negative feelings could make you less likely to practice your craft, or even quit altogether.
By sticking with something and putting enough effort into it, your skills will eventually grow and develop, even if it might not seem like it at the time.
Find/Follow Your Passion
Whether you’re new or experienced, finding and following your creative passion is key to success.
If you’re not interested or passionate about what you do, then that can lead to issues later down the line.
Proper Motivation
It could take longer to develop and hone your skills if you lack enthusiasm or aren’t sure if you’ve chosen the correct craft.
You tend to pick up things quicker when it’s something you are actively interested in.
For example, if you’re trying to learn how to use oil paints but your passion lies elsewhere like knitting, then put down the paintbrush and pick up the knitting needles!
If you don’t know where to start, there are plenty of resources online from online knitting classes to sewing patterns and tutorials.
Preference
I tried my hand at pottery once, but I found it was not really for me and I was more interested in sketching and painting.
If you’re passionate about a craft, then follow it, don’t be worried about starting other projects until you’ve found a hobby you enjoy.
Focus/Do Your Own Thing
People might tell you your craft isn’t very popular or profitable, and that you’re better off doing something else.
But don’t listen to them and focus on your own thing.
This is especially true when first starting out.
Try not to let negative opinions or what others are doing get to you.
Just because other creatives may get a lot of attention from doing a particular craft, that doesn’t mean you’ve to do the same.
Believe In Yourself
Focus on what you enjoy and what you want to pursue.
Alternatively, if friends, family members, or strangers tell you your skills are lacking or you’re better off chasing another craft, then try not to let their opinions get to you.
Keep practicing and following your passion – don’t allow anyone to stand in your way!
Don’t Be Afraid to Fail
If things don’t go according to plan or fail to meet your initial expectations, then don’t throw in the towel just yet.
It takes time to achieve what you want, especially when you are first starting out.
Failure is all part of your creative journey and getting better at something.
Don’t Let Mistakes Hold You Back
Whether it’s: a piece of pottery that turned out a little wonky, an odor eliminating candle that doesn’t really do it’s job, a painting that could do with a rework, or a bunch of dropped stitches in a knitting project – don’t beat yourself and try to learn from your past mistakes.
This will help you learn more about your craft and what you can do to improve your skills. Even the most advanced and experienced creatives started from the beginning at some point.
Perseverance and practice will help you overcome any obstacles you might face, so don’t be afraid to fail.
