Building Confidence in Your Art as You Step into the New Year

Sometimes the only way to build confidence is by facing the challenge head-on.

As we close one chapter and step into a fresh new year, it’s the perfect time to reflect, reset, and recharge—not just in life but in your art. Confidence as an artist can feel elusive at times. Whether it’s comparing yourself to others, worrying about your next big idea, or second-guessing your talent, we all face those moments of doubt. But the good news? Confidence isn’t something you’re born with—it’s something you build, little by little.

Here are a few simple ways I've come up with to start the new year with a fresh perspective and renewed belief in yourself and your art:

1. Celebrate Your Wins (Big and Small)
   

   Take a moment to look back at the past year. Did you finish a piece you’re proud of? Sell a painting? Try a new technique? Even if the wins feel small, they’re worth celebrating. Confidence grows when you acknowledge your progress.

   
   

2. Focus on Growth, Not Perfection Art is a journey, not a destination. Instead of aiming for perfection, embrace the process of learning and experimenting. When you let go of the need to be flawless, you open yourself up to creativity and growth.

   
   

3. Share Your Work Sharing your art can feel vulnerable, but it’s also one of the best ways to build confidence. Post a painting online, join a group exhibition, or even show a friend what you’ve been working on. The positive feedback—and even constructive criticism—can help you see your work through fresh eyes.

   
   

4. Set Realistic Goals Instead of overwhelming yourself with big resolutions, set a few small, actionable goals for your art practice. Whether it’s dedicating 30 minutes a day to sketching, finishing one piece a month, or submitting to a juried show, these steps will keep you moving forward.

   
   

5. Be Kind to Yourself We’re often our own worst critics. This year, try to be as kind to yourself as you would be to another artist. Give yourself credit for showing up, even on days when the creativity isn’t flowing. Confidence isn’t about never doubting yourself—it’s about showing up despite those doubts.

   
   

I can relate to this firsthand. This year, I’m embarking on a new series of paintings that I’ve procrastinated about for a while. The series poses a number of challenges, and I’ve let that hold me back. But instead of overthinking, I’ve decided to jump in and let the process teach me what I need to know. Sometimes the only way to build confidence is by facing the challenge head-on.

Here's to making the coming year one of confidence, creativity, and growth.