@SketchBookSkool PLEASE what if tou don't feel like it and are very depressed and discand are starting late..how donyou keep ot fun and enjoyable? Thanks for sharing.
@@leif1075 I do a "I'm miserable anyway so I might as well draw" . Keep pencils and markers and paper around in several places where you tend to sit being miserable, so you don't even have to move to get up and get them. It works often enough
My problem is not only procrastination but also guilt and resistance. Guilt for the things I should be doing; like cleaning house, cooking dinner, spending time with the hubs. All this after working at a job all day. Resistance because, well, the guilt.
Let’s just give ourselves permission to finally do something creative. Our souls are cheering for us. Yes?! He is right. WE have to make time and take the risk. Silence that monkey in our heads!
Sometimes I resist because drawing makes me feel good and there are other tasks that I hate but the world thinks those are what I should focus on. So basically, I feel guilty doing anything just for me
My sister had so many GREAT ideas for everything! She had notebooks on the podcast she was going to do. Bought all the things-great mike, NPR book on how to do a podcast, wrote notes on her first episode. She had an idea for an AMAZING book of linked poems to tell a story about rural new englanders. I found her notes that she was going to finish it in 2016, and then 2018, and then 2019. Maybe during the pandemic! It would be a great pandemic project. She got four poems done. In 2022, she was in a serious car accident and became a quadriplegic. No longer able to write with her hands, she had to learn to “write” with assistive technology, and it was very, very rough going. Then, all of a sudden, at the beginning of this May, she was diagnosed with cancer. Three weeks later, she was gone. You never know what’s around the corner. Life doesn’t go on forever. We all learned a huge lesson from what happened to her. Whatever it is you want to do-Do. It. Now.
I really appreciate your life story. I’m so sorry for such a tragic loss you have experienced. And I hope her spirit lives on in the stories you tell and the way she shaped your life. ❤
About a week ago I understood the reason why I was procrastinating: I had a very good streak of working on my watercolors every day for a while and then I suddenly stopped, because my mindset changed. I went from enjoying the process because it was my time to play and experiment with colors, to taking it seriously. I bought a few books and wanted to go through every lesson to learn all the techniques and make perfect paintings and beautiful art journals. I was also looking at the journey to become a better artist and it looked so daunting and long. I was comparing myself with professional artists and I was feeling down. I was also creating a schedule in my mind to work on it every day, like an obligation. Suddenly it was a chore, not play, so it was not fun anymore. But then I read a comment on Reddit about how this is all a mindset. So I have decided to change my mindset. I just love to play with colors, this is my time to play. I don't want to reach for success in art, I just want to enjoy the process. So I'm back to play, and while my first layer of a cactus that I am painting dries, here I am listening to your video on procrastination. Perfect timing! Thank you!!
Oh man, the endless watching videos and the art supply shopping it triggers is a DISEASE!! And i have to fight so hard to use stuff and not hoard it, too.
That's me with writing. Instead of sitting down to write, I'm growing a collection of books to one day read. I'm brainstorming the death out of things to write, things to create and other projects to complete. The endless loop, going nowhere.
Same! The worst is when I get The Thing, that magic Thing that will somehow make it so I actually do art, and then I'm afraid to use The Thing because it's too good to use.
I was told years ago to "break" the page. Facing that blank pristine surface can be hard, so "spoil " it first. Smudge it, fold it, scribble and erase. Go through that brand new sketch book and "ruin" it with some random squiggles, or preserve that first pristine page for your "perfect" piece so you can "mess up" the rest.
Definitely my life story here.... I dream about the art I want to do and I watch artists constantly. Procrastination is fear for me. Fear of failure...
Actually started my first ever sketchbook this morning at age 34. Just a crude pen drawing of a box with a hinged lid, but it pretty much looks like the actual object (to my surprise).
I sketch on the back of used paper, old envelopes etc. It is pressure free. A sketchbook feels like the opposite. I create for recycling, so to speak 😂
OMG…that procrastinator is me. I’ve watched so many watercolour videos, my art supplies are ready, I even have an art room to use yet here I am watching more art videos. Thank you. I hope I can use your advice and put paint to paper…maybe even today!!
"The monkey is going to get quieter the more you create. Each piece of art, no matter how small, is a victory over that voice. Embrace your imperfections. Embrace the learning process." - Danny Gregory (2024). This quote is in my commonplace book now. It resonates with me. I like meditating, so "quieting the mind" is something I know of. You showed me a course of action I never thought of and I am so grateful for your video 💜
Wow, this guy is voicing my inner thoughts out loud! Time to get out the sketchbook and actually do something, instead of just counting my pencils. Thank you for this.
0:57 - reason why you procrastinate 1:50 - Recognize procrastination for what it is 2:09 - Set up a small specific kind of goal 3:14 - Acknowledge the struggle 3:52 - the illusion of productivity 4:53 - Set small, achievable goals 5:54 - Limit distractions 6:43 - Give yourself a break and embrace imperfection 7:58 - Be accountable 9:36 - Make it a routine and habit 10:44 - Shift your mindset from “I should create” to “I get to create”; turn “being creative” from a chore to a reward 11:27 - how joyful creating can be; remember the joy of creating 12:12 - Be good to you; be kind to yourself; celebrate your streak
I don't know why but this made me tear up a bit.. mostly at the end.. being reminded how much I actually love making art. Just reminding myself that making art makes me feel good.
A good book to check out if you find yourself procrastinating or with art blockage is Eric Maisel's "Fearless Creating". Also his other book, Van Gogh Blues.
Have you been spying on me, Danny? Because while watching this video I was convinced that you were aware of my personal failings, and were talking directly to me. I have resigned myself to the fact that my attempt to be an artist will get no further than buying equipment and watching TH-cam videos of other people being artists. These feel like safer pastimes than picking up a pen or brush and actually creating something. I do want to be creative… and I have enough supplies to stock an art store… but there’s an invisible, impenetrable barrier that consistently prevents me from making a start. So I buy yet another how-to book, or a better brush, thinking… this will be the key to my getting started making art. But it never is. So, thank you for taking the time to create this video uniquely for me. 🙏🏻 Thanks to your pep talk I will force myself to create a piece of art today. Consider me converted! 😅
I am SO glad that this video came across my feed! I've worked in animation as a storyboard artist for 27 years. But it's been getting so difficult to find steady work the past few years and now, the industry is outsourcing boarding jobs to other countries for cheaper labor. So, after some personal struggles, I haven't drawn in about 6 months. Seeing your video feels like the encouragement I've been needing. So, Thank you. 🙏🏾
I finally started a doodle journal in March. The idea was to just doodle one page a day. I gave myself permission for it to not be perfect. Some days it’s just a random doodle that takes 5 minutes. Some days it’s a full on sketch that I get lost in for 3 hours. It’s been fun.
Omg lol I recently decided time to celebrate running out of stuff instead of always having a backup of everything! So glad to discover I’m not alone. Thx for making me laugh
Perfectionism kills my motivation. I get a certain way into a painting and become fearful of ruining it. There’s no back/undo button, can’t save drafts! 😂 Yes, you can paint over it or even wet it and scrape it off, which I’ve done ✅✅ but still. I have to talk myself through pushing forward, past the mental obstacles. And I remind myself there’s only one real way to fail: by quitting 😉
This reminds me of the book titled Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway. The title says it all-acknowledge that fear, and then make an actual step TOWARDS the feared thing (obviously not if it’s an actual threat!). Thanks for a much needed reminder!
I make sure that I create some kind of art everyday. Sketch, or loose drawing, or watercolour marker designs, or quotes which I decorate with flowers and vines. It relaxes me and helps with stress relief. 'Just get something on the paper or canvas!' 😊
I'm definitely guilty of a lot of the things you mentioned. I have those phases where I actually (finally) get over myself and start making art and practice, but then, often sooner than later, something comes up and I just fall off of my budding routine like a bug from a branch... It's the momentum that I keep losing, followed by distractions that pop up like mushrooms and an empty space that provides a perfect stage for the monkey to act out on. Every time the ice that I've broken before becomes solid again and I have to start over. And you know what? Today I'll draw. Thank you, Danny! Your videos never fail to give me a push in the right direction. I really appreciate your input!
This is just what I needed to read as a tag for the video. Thank you. Today I will make some kind of mark in my sketchbook. That concrete sentence of yours is what made this usable for me. I appreciate you.
My daughter and I have have confessed to each other that buying art supplies SO FUN! I'm going to put a few more beads on this beadwork project now. 😁❤️
Ich bin gerade alleine in Italien im Urlaub und durch Danny habe ich so viel Spaß am Zeichnen gefunden. Verbringe hier die meiste Zeit damit Leute und alles was ich sehe zu zeichnen. Es ist wunderbar. Danke!❤
Thank you. I stumbled across this video (while procrastinating) and it was something I really needed to see. The universe is telling me something. Lol.
Great insights on tackling procrastination and enhancing creativity! Reframing our approach from 'I should create' to 'I get to create' can significantly shift our motivation and unlock our creative potential. 🎨
One of your best, especially for me. We just moved into a new home and I feel like I have to unpack boxes continually until everything is in order -- no time for fun stuff. But, tomorrow really WILL be another day, and I'm gonna make art (on my brand new fabulous art table that is so pristine I have hesitated to do anything but admire it). 🙂PS - Art is the funnest stuff.
This was VERY helpful, like so many of his videos, the older I get, the more perfectionist I have gotten, but with my art, it can make me strop by telling myself it wont be good enough. Growing up, I just did art and didn't think about how good it has to be and I have been working with myself on how to embrace imperfections. the first step I took in that was to use pen instead of pencil because after i put down the line, I had to live and work with it.
I learned a lot from my friend whose wife and he are art teachers during the day. Two days and two nights a week, they have an art gallery auction for artists by artists. Over twelve years, this guy has painted over three thousand paintings. All have been auctioned for amazing deals. I admire that they do this when they could easily sell their art for at least $200 a painting. That’s $600,000 (underestimated) giving back to the Calgary art community. This talented guy can paint a 3’ X 2’ painting in an hour. I’ve learned a quick sketch, and then paint hits the canvas. Often, a loose painting is better than overthinking a painting.
Very good advice.... Thank you!! I usually give myself 20 or 30 minutes to make something, I will also pick just one tutorial from Pinterest or TH-cam to do. Even though it's not original, I've accomplished something... and I often put my own spin on it. Have a great day 😊
Thank you for this thank you from my heart - it’s perfectly about me… years of procrastination - work, dog, house chores, children visiting etc… files of videos, shelves of materials - exactly as you say… Thank you for shaking me helping to wake up🙏
Thank you for making this video. If felt like you were speaking directly to me. Yes I do all those things. I hear what you are saying and your advice is sinking in. I’m am going to write some of these phrases in my sketchbook now and draw something. Thank you as always x
I'd like to share my own perspective on Danny's message here. I am a skilled in a crafts (think cabinet maker) where anything less than perfection is considered a shoddy job. I've had clients take out a spirit level and criticise me even though they can't visually notice any defect. However while sketching I enjoy imperfection and _fuzziness_ and fill whole sketchbooks with mindless scribbling. I've found it relieves my anxiety and calms my aggression. My problem while drawing isn't about daring to be loose, it's about having some sort of boundary or objective. This is also a real problem for some of us who enjoy sketching.
THANK YOU SO MUCH! I really thought I was the only one that felt this way! The women's note you read sounded so much like me its crazy. This video makes my heart lighter and gives me new air under my wings to try again. Thank you! ❤
“now lets explore some practical steps” is something a lot of these videos full of advice fail to include. I already know why I procrastinate (perfectionism/ fear of being messy and failure), but I fall short with taking the actual actions in order to improve. I hope we all can overcome our fears and start loving whatever we create despite our expectations. Good luck creators, you can do it
Not sure which is more relatable and more helpful… your message or reading the comments and realizing I’m not that strange about collecting and thinking about creating instead of actually doing! Found a 2016 dog eared article “spend more time Being not Doing” going to transcribe in one of my many pristine mixed media journals than draw and paint over it!! Thank you for your constant creative encouragement
This is so helpful. I so needed this as so many of your points describe me (buying new tools, paralyzed by perfectionism, YT tutorials instead of art). One thing I've been trying lately is to take an old unfinished piee of art and just add to it in some way. It's less pressure because I've already felt like I've given up on it, so it's not the dreaded "blank page/canvas" and it's lower stakes. A few times, I've actually ended up with something interesting. Have been reading a book called "Tiny Habits," which has been pretty helpful as well.
You know what, you're right on the monkey? I feel Procrastinating whenever i took out my painting stuff. I did some paintings over the years, but very lazy and it took many years to complete an art. To fix this, i bought some "Paint with number" arts from online shops and get into action. Now, I really fell in Love with with it and I'm completing it and have paste it on my walls. As I can see my work on the wall, that makes me to keep going and i kept doing it. This way, I allow the Love for Painting more and drawing, sketching more 😍🥰🥰 I can't stop and I'm going to continue it...😜🥰 It's like have my own Art Gallery at home.😇
Thank you so much! I have exactly this problem in my life, i have nice things to do my art in different ways, but now i don't know how start again, i feel so afraid to ruin my materials because i was very poor in the past and in that moment only had paper and a pencil, but i did a lot of good stuff, now, i have materials but i remember that every time when i take my paints or a single sheet from my sketch book and i feel very bad, its a kind of fault feeling. Now i understand all my problems, i need to take away all the bad feelings of me of my past to live my dream future. Thank you so much! From the bottom of my heart 😊
I use the time listening to you, sir, to sketch, doodle, and think deeply. It is rarely "productive" in the finished work sense, but I leave the experience better in every way.
Gosh I'm so glad I found this video! This hits spot on for me. I get confused as to why I've been craving to do art for several years now, but didn't have the space to do it. Now have more space but not much time or energy in my chaos of disorganization. There's always excuses and reasons why I can't do my art!😣 Thank you for sharing how taking those small baby steps each day doing some form of art is so important! My problem is... besides being a procrastinator I'm also a perfectionist. So I feel if I get some form of art project started that I have to be so fully focused that it has to be perfect! The points you made here in taking those baby steps each day are really helpful, thank you🙏🖌🎨
Just what I needed to hear, constantly buying new art supplies and not really starting much! Suffering from imposter syndrome but now going to take your advice.
I recently started a sketchbook devoted solely to blind contour drawing and 15 second to 40 second gesture drawing. Absolutely no pressure for prefect drawings with that criteria. I find myself sketching almost every day now, all the while developing my ability to actually see what I'm drawing. FYI - Recently bought A Life In Hand after watching one of your videos about it. I'm on my second read.
Love love love these points….I’m ADHD and if you know anything about this, I get so distracted by EVERYTHING AROUND ME, ALL THE TIME… tomorrow morning, I will set up/write a timetable and try extra hard to concentrate on each task like never before, THANK YOU!
Thank you so so much for such a helpful video. I was surprised that I am not the only one doing the things you mentioned. I wish I could like your video 1000 times. 🥰
My quote to fight perfectionism is from Edward Scissors Hands..."I'm not finished". Because I'm never finished, learning, creating, and trying. I can leave a page unfinished and move on...come back to it later...cover it over or add to it.
I needed this...Been procrastinating for years..waiting for my art area to be completed and perfect! You are right! Its not done and its not going to be and yes I have everything I need..and then some. Just gotta do it! Ive also bought every book on creativity there is..in the end they all say the same thing...just do it. Thank you!
Another great topic to touch on and help us work through Danny. Thank you for always encouraging others.❤ I’m totally GUILTY of procrastination !! 🙈🙉🙊🐵🐒🙈🙉🙊🐵🐒
wow! this is me! I'm 69 years old and I've always thought of my self as a creative person. But like you said, I would put more effort into gathering the tools, the supplies, or the reference materials than actually doing the project. I can't wait to start trying some of these ideas. Thank you so much for this video.
I suffer very much from the symptoms you have described. But now that you have helped me to identify them, I am better prepared to tackle them. Thank you for your advice.
😊 thank you Danny, as always very insightful. I'll rewatch it because there is so much valuable information in it. But I'll create something first 😅😅 yes, no procrastination this time.
I love this advice video. I typically dont watch videos like this because advice on procrastination typically does not help people who suffer with executive dysfunction, but a lot of your advice includes tips on how I try to overcome mine. I feel this is great advice for anyone regardless of how their brain is wired. I'd also just like to point out that "draw with me" streams are a great way to be held accountable to draw! You dont even have to know how to do Twitch or TH-cam streams or have a large social media following to do it. I was once in a call with friends on Discord while working away on a big project with a rapidly approaching deadline when one friend expressed he wished he could see me draw. So, on a whim, I disconnected from the call on my computer, reconnected on my phone, and propped up my phone so that I could use my camera to record myself drawing. And lemme tell you: my friends LOVED it. They were still talking about it the next day. They constantly wanted to know when the next one would be! I ended up having to buy an overhead camera mount for my phone so they could get a better view. Even when I had no idea what to draw and was just scribbling random things into my sketchbook, they always enjoyed it. I unfortunately had to stop when I moved out of that apartment, but I'm excited to get my camera mount out of storage as soon as possible so I can start again. A lot of our friends and family love our art more than they express, so setting up a time to chat with them while allowing them to watch us work is not only a great way to hold ourselves accountable, but also bring joy to our friends and family.
I was working at both Procreate and watercolor art for a great while a couple of months ago and stopped because life got in the way with work and family. However, creating art is always important to me even if I had to take a small hiatus from it. Therefore, this great video jolted me back into reality like a loving "cattle prod"--Lol. Thank you so much for your TH-cam channel and this great video--very true about procrastination and very inspirational about the need to be proactive in creating art daily.♥
The thing is, creating is work, good work, mentally exhilerating, but then draining. I have only so much mental energy a day. Sometimes it's got be used for organising my life (doctor's appointments, grocery shopping, laundry, meal prep, replying to a friend's phone call, language learning, on and on. If I didn't care about anything else, and could let things slide, I'd spend all my time being creative because I very much like it. But sometimes, my brain needs to just relax, to pet my cat, to stare at the neighbour's huge tree, to look at TH-cam images, to learn things, and fill back up with energy, so I can do the creative things. I don't see it as procrastination. I see it as an ebb and flow of energy. That's it.
Could it be that you see Art as a chore rather than a fun, relaxing hobby to engage in? Art should allow you to connect with your inner soul; your deepest thoughts emotions and whatnot, not an assignment to finish for the day. Your mind needs to relax and remember that you can draw your daunting day, after all that's what even some of the famous artists painted❤😊
Yes! I think its important to understand that organising your life, grocery shopping, cooking, responding to friends, cleaning, IS CREATIVE. Every day you create your life, your whole life and it does take energy.
Thank you for these thoughts. In addition to buying supplies I don't use, I follow several art groups on Facebook. Between that and TH-cam tutorials, I become overwhelmed with all the options and end up doing nothing at all. Not sure yet if I will leave the Facebook groups, but I may stop following them so I don't see all the posts they generate.
Thank you for this so very much. It took me longer than a year to develop the habit of drawing daily. Your videos have helped me accomplish this. You rock.!
I ended my dry spell yesterday with Draw with Me. It was a long hiatus. Both my jewelry production and drawing/painting pretty much ended. Perhaps I did need some hibernation who knows. I enjoyed the abandon that the varied supplies gave me while exploring the strengths and limitations of each. So I found the joy and k ow I need more of that. Thanks as always for the advice encouraging words.
Thank you for sharing such valuable information. I came across your video today while on my 1st day this week on medical rest from work. I feel it wasn't an accident for me to see your under these circumstances.
I cut cotton paper into cue cards and challenged myself to use them up 3 times on each side practicing brush strokes and anything I want everywhere as if I am living ten years into the future. I love myself and prepare for myself and turn on a specific music list and put a picture of my friend smiling at me on my desk and do a bunch of puttering as if I were a school teacher setting up my class room and think of myself as a secretary adding details...first wash, so what...and then I want to add to it!
I’m an oil painter that paints vintage cars. Over the past several months, I’ve been taking my drawing pad , pens etc to work with me. I work on a drawing every time I take a break. It equals out to about 30-45 minutes of practice daily.
Thank you for making this. You make excellent points and provide great inspiration and ideas!! I just subscribed too! I’m not an artist..but I am an avid procrastinator!! Keep up your goodness! 🎉❤
I will watch this video tomorrow
😂
But you commented today. Baby steps. 😂
😂
😂
Giggles
I discovered a long time ago...shopping for art supplies, surfing art videos & actually doing art are all just very different hobbies.
Enjoy them all!
Wow! you just said it all, could be a picture of me!
@SketchBookSkool PLEASE what if tou don't feel like it and are very depressed and discand are starting late..how donyou keep ot fun and enjoyable? Thanks for sharing.
@@leif1075 I do a "I'm miserable anyway so I might as well draw" . Keep pencils and markers and paper around in several places where you tend to sit being miserable, so you don't even have to move to get up and get them. It works often enough
😂
"I have spent many days stringing and unstringing my instrument
while the song I came to sing remains unsung."
- Rabindranath Tagore
My problem is not only procrastination but also guilt and resistance. Guilt for the things I should be doing; like cleaning house, cooking dinner, spending time with the hubs. All this after working at a job all day. Resistance because, well, the guilt.
Let’s just give ourselves permission to finally do something creative. Our souls are cheering for us. Yes?! He is right. WE have to make time and take the risk. Silence that monkey in our heads!
Perhaps you’ll find this video helpful: th-cam.com/video/iCsP-SF_Y-s/w-d-xo.htmlsi=fx-q8DaQ42CSTyhS
@@SketchBookSkoolFree ebook about feeling the guilt. How wonderful! I will read. Thank you!😊
Sometimes I resist because drawing makes me feel good and there are other tasks that I hate but the world thinks those are what I should focus on.
So basically, I feel guilty doing anything just for me
What if you're blind in one eye I have terrible vision in the other I completely color blind and still want to start drawing
My sister had so many GREAT ideas for everything! She had notebooks on the podcast she was going to do. Bought all the things-great mike, NPR book on how to do a podcast, wrote notes on her first episode. She had an idea for an AMAZING book of linked poems to tell a story about rural new englanders. I found her notes that she was going to finish it in 2016, and then 2018, and then 2019. Maybe during the pandemic! It would be a great pandemic project. She got four poems done. In 2022, she was in a serious car accident and became a quadriplegic. No longer able to write with her hands, she had to learn to “write” with assistive technology, and it was very, very rough going. Then, all of a sudden, at the beginning of this May, she was diagnosed with cancer. Three weeks later, she was gone. You never know what’s around the corner. Life doesn’t go on forever. We all learned a huge lesson from what happened to her. Whatever it is you want to do-Do. It. Now.
I’m so sorry for your loss. But I love the lesson you’ve taken from this challenge. Your sister sounds amazing!
Wow, so sorry for ur loss, very inspiring to hear your story as I am a procrastinator big time. I needed to read this, thank u.
I really appreciate your life story. I’m so sorry for such a tragic loss you have experienced. And I hope her spirit lives on in the stories you tell and the way she shaped your life. ❤
Thank you
This is very sad but thank you for sharing because what you say is so true
About a week ago I understood the reason why I was procrastinating: I had a very good streak of working on my watercolors every day for a while and then I suddenly stopped, because my mindset changed. I went from enjoying the process because it was my time to play and experiment with colors, to taking it seriously. I bought a few books and wanted to go through every lesson to learn all the techniques and make perfect paintings and beautiful art journals. I was also looking at the journey to become a better artist and it looked so daunting and long. I was comparing myself with professional artists and I was feeling down. I was also creating a schedule in my mind to work on it every day, like an obligation. Suddenly it was a chore, not play, so it was not fun anymore. But then I read a comment on Reddit about how this is all a mindset. So I have decided to change my mindset. I just love to play with colors, this is my time to play. I don't want to reach for success in art, I just want to enjoy the process. So I'm back to play, and while my first layer of a cactus that I am painting dries, here I am listening to your video on procrastination. Perfect timing! Thank you!!
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Yes! This! All of it. I know exactly what you mean.
This is very inspiring! Thank you for your comment❤
Oh man, the endless watching videos and the art supply shopping it triggers is a DISEASE!! And i have to fight so hard to use stuff and not hoard it, too.
Oh my, I'm the same 😮
Exactly me too!
That's me with writing. Instead of sitting down to write, I'm growing a collection of books to one day read. I'm brainstorming the death out of things to write, things to create and other projects to complete. The endless loop, going nowhere.
Same! The worst is when I get The Thing, that magic Thing that will somehow make it so I actually do art, and then I'm afraid to use The Thing because it's too good to use.
I was told years ago to "break" the page. Facing that blank pristine surface can be hard, so "spoil " it first. Smudge it, fold it, scribble and erase. Go through that brand new sketch book and "ruin" it with some random squiggles, or preserve that first pristine page for your "perfect" piece so you can "mess up" the rest.
One of my favorite artists does that to her canvas first thing. ❤
Definitely my life story here.... I dream about the art I want to do and I watch artists constantly. Procrastination is fear for me. Fear of failure...
YT needs to stop recommending me these motivational videos just before bed
Your blaming internet blame the monkey for being on internet
😂😂😂😂😂
Actually started my first ever sketchbook this morning at age 34. Just a crude pen drawing of a box with a hinged lid, but it pretty much looks like the actual object (to my surprise).
Way to go! The hard part is over. Stick with it and be consistent and you'll develop your skills along the way.
Well done! Keep going 😁
I sketch on the back of used paper, old envelopes etc. It is pressure free. A sketchbook feels like the opposite.
I create for recycling, so to speak 😂
It’s been a month…. Are you still doing it every day?
OMG…that procrastinator is me. I’ve watched so many watercolour videos, my art supplies are ready, I even have an art room to use yet here I am watching more art videos. Thank you. I hope I can use your advice and put paint to paper…maybe even today!!
Me too
"The monkey is going to get quieter the more you create. Each piece of art, no matter how small, is a victory over that voice. Embrace your imperfections. Embrace the learning process." - Danny Gregory (2024).
This quote is in my commonplace book now. It resonates with me.
I like meditating, so "quieting the mind" is something I know of.
You showed me a course of action I never thought of and I am so grateful for your video 💜
Wow, this guy is voicing my inner thoughts out loud! Time to get out the sketchbook and actually do something, instead of just counting my pencils. Thank you for this.
Me too. He knows me so well.😮
"I GET TO paint/draw" is such a good mindset change, thank you!❤
It feels so good not to be the only one who feels like that. 😅
My Daddy was a perfectionist. I didn’t realize how much of this had engrained on me and how much is tied to procrastination. Ty for food for thought💕
Good advice - thank you!
Have you heard this….
What do we want ?
Procrastination!
When do we want it?
Next week !
Perfect!
0:57 - reason why you procrastinate
1:50 - Recognize procrastination for what it is
2:09 - Set up a small specific kind of goal
3:14 - Acknowledge the struggle
3:52 - the illusion of productivity
4:53 - Set small, achievable goals
5:54 - Limit distractions
6:43 - Give yourself a break and embrace imperfection
7:58 - Be accountable
9:36 - Make it a routine and habit
10:44 - Shift your mindset from “I should create” to “I get to create”; turn “being creative” from a chore to a reward
11:27 - how joyful creating can be; remember the joy of creating
12:12 - Be good to you; be kind to yourself; celebrate your streak
Oh my god thank you, you actual legend, you saved me so much time
Well done you.
I feel that sometimes it’s a fear of being interrupted.
I don't know why but this made me tear up a bit.. mostly at the end.. being reminded how much I actually love making art. Just reminding myself that making art makes me feel good.
A good book to check out if you find yourself procrastinating or with art blockage is Eric Maisel's "Fearless Creating". Also his other book, Van Gogh Blues.
5:52 I’ll finish the rest of this video later😊, I’m gonna draw something right now!😄👋🏾
Have you been spying on me, Danny?
Because while watching this video I was convinced that you were aware of my personal failings, and were talking directly to me.
I have resigned myself to the fact that my attempt to be an artist will get no further than buying equipment and watching TH-cam videos of other people being artists.
These feel like safer pastimes than picking up a pen or brush and actually creating something.
I do want to be creative… and I have enough supplies to stock an art store… but there’s an invisible, impenetrable barrier that consistently prevents me from making a start.
So I buy yet another how-to book, or a better brush, thinking… this will be the key to my getting started making art.
But it never is.
So, thank you for taking the time to create this video uniquely for me. 🙏🏻
Thanks to your pep talk I will force myself to create a piece of art today.
Consider me converted! 😅
I recommend listening to The War of Art by Steven Pressfield while painting. Big Magic is another gem
I am SO glad that this video came across my feed! I've worked in animation as a storyboard artist for 27 years. But it's been getting so difficult to find steady work the past few years and now, the industry is outsourcing boarding jobs to other countries for cheaper labor. So, after some personal struggles, I haven't drawn in about 6 months. Seeing your video feels like the encouragement I've been needing. So, Thank you. 🙏🏾
I finally started a doodle journal in March. The idea was to just doodle one page a day. I gave myself permission for it to not be perfect. Some days it’s just a random doodle that takes 5 minutes. Some days it’s a full on sketch that I get lost in for 3 hours. It’s been fun.
This message is just what I needed- I have been “stuck” and I now realize it’s called procrastination. Thank you for your wisdom!
What's even more satisfying than buying new tools and actually drawing is realizing that "oh, I painted so much that I ran out of this color". 😄
Omg lol I recently decided time to celebrate running out of stuff instead of always having a backup of everything! So glad to discover I’m not alone. Thx for making me laugh
Hahahahaha! Love this. And you’re so right!!
The pessimistic monkey was always in my head. I’m not alone. I feel good. ❤
Perfectionism kills my motivation. I get a certain way into a painting and become fearful of ruining it. There’s no back/undo button, can’t save drafts! 😂 Yes, you can paint over it or even wet it and scrape it off, which I’ve done ✅✅ but still. I have to talk myself through pushing forward, past the mental obstacles. And I remind myself there’s only one real way to fail: by quitting 😉
Thank you, Danny. It's easy to forget what a privilege it can be to create. It's a choice I can make and it's the right choice to make. 🙂
This reminds me of the book titled Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway. The title says it all-acknowledge that fear, and then make an actual step TOWARDS the feared thing (obviously not if it’s an actual threat!). Thanks for a much needed reminder!
I make sure that I create some kind of art everyday. Sketch, or loose drawing, or watercolour marker designs, or quotes which I decorate with flowers and vines. It relaxes me and helps with stress relief. 'Just get something on the paper or canvas!' 😊
I'm definitely guilty of a lot of the things you mentioned. I have those phases where I actually (finally) get over myself and start making art and practice, but then, often sooner than later, something comes up and I just fall off of my budding routine like a bug from a branch... It's the momentum that I keep losing, followed by distractions that pop up like mushrooms and an empty space that provides a perfect stage for the monkey to act out on. Every time the ice that I've broken before becomes solid again and I have to start over.
And you know what? Today I'll draw. Thank you, Danny! Your videos never fail to give me a push in the right direction. I really appreciate your input!
By this example I'd say you're a writer not an artist...?
This is just what I needed to read as a tag for the video. Thank you. Today I will make some kind of mark in my sketchbook. That concrete sentence of yours is what made this usable for me. I appreciate you.
I also get distracted easily and go off in too many different directions. I am wondering if maybe I have ADD.
My daughter and I have have confessed to each other that buying art supplies SO FUN! I'm going to put a few more beads on this beadwork project now. 😁❤️
Ich bin gerade alleine in Italien im Urlaub und durch Danny habe ich so viel Spaß am Zeichnen gefunden. Verbringe hier die meiste Zeit damit Leute und alles was ich sehe zu zeichnen. Es ist wunderbar.
Danke!❤
“Cause I never get it quite right.” 😂😂😂
This was real talk and I definitely got called out here. 💯
Thank you. I stumbled across this video (while procrastinating) and it was something I really needed to see. The universe is telling me something. Lol.
Glad it was helpful!
Great insights on tackling procrastination and enhancing creativity! Reframing our approach from 'I should create' to 'I get to create' can significantly shift our motivation and unlock our creative potential. 🎨
One of your best, especially for me. We just moved into a new home and I feel like I have to unpack boxes continually until everything is in order -- no time for fun stuff. But, tomorrow really WILL be another day, and I'm gonna make art (on my brand new fabulous art table that is so pristine I have hesitated to do anything but admire it). 🙂PS - Art is the funnest stuff.
Instead of learning from others, learn by trial and error half the time. Less internet, more art.
Yup
This was VERY helpful, like so many of his videos, the older I get, the more perfectionist I have gotten, but with my art, it can make me strop by telling myself it wont be good enough. Growing up, I just did art and didn't think about how good it has to be and I have been working with myself on how to embrace imperfections. the first step I took in that was to use pen instead of pencil because after i put down the line, I had to live and work with it.
I learned a lot from my friend whose wife and he are art teachers during the day. Two days and two nights a week, they have an art gallery auction for artists by artists.
Over twelve years, this guy has painted over three thousand paintings. All have been auctioned for amazing deals. I admire that they do this when they could easily sell their art for at least $200 a painting. That’s $600,000 (underestimated) giving back to the Calgary art community. This talented guy can paint a 3’ X 2’ painting in an hour. I’ve learned a quick sketch, and then paint hits the canvas. Often, a loose painting is better than overthinking a painting.
Sound psychological advice, very inspiring and kind!
Very good advice.... Thank you!! I usually give myself 20 or 30 minutes to make something, I will also pick just one tutorial from Pinterest or TH-cam to do. Even though it's not original, I've accomplished something... and I often put my own spin on it. Have a great day 😊
Ha! Ha! 😂I’m watching this ( wonderful),video about Not procrastinating, While I’m PROCRASTINATING! 🎉 thanks so much, Danny! Very helpful advice-
This is what I needed to hear :) I started sketching while listening to you. Thank you for this.
Thank you for this thank you from my heart - it’s perfectly about me… years of procrastination - work, dog, house chores, children visiting etc… files of videos, shelves of materials - exactly as you say… Thank you for shaking me helping to wake up🙏
Thank you for making this video. If felt like you were speaking directly to me. Yes I do all those things. I hear what you are saying and your advice is sinking in. I’m am going to write some of these phrases in my sketchbook now and draw something. Thank you as always x
All so true!
I'd like to share my own perspective on Danny's message here. I am a skilled in a crafts (think cabinet maker) where anything less than perfection is considered a shoddy job. I've had clients take out a spirit level and criticise me even though they can't visually notice any defect. However while sketching I enjoy imperfection and _fuzziness_ and fill whole sketchbooks with mindless scribbling. I've found it relieves my anxiety and calms my aggression. My problem while drawing isn't about daring to be loose, it's about having some sort of boundary or objective. This is also a real problem for some of us who enjoy sketching.
THANK YOU SO MUCH! I really thought I was the only one that felt this way! The women's note you read sounded so much like me its crazy. This video makes my heart lighter and gives me new air under my wings to try again. Thank you! ❤
“now lets explore some practical steps” is something a lot of these videos full of advice fail to include. I already know why I procrastinate (perfectionism/ fear of being messy and failure), but I fall short with taking the actual actions in order to improve. I hope we all can overcome our fears and start loving whatever we create despite our expectations. Good luck creators, you can do it
This is so me. I have such a wonderful studio and as of late I haven’t done much art. I’ll change that today and make a fun mess.
Thank you! I love the idea of little steps every day!
Not sure which is more relatable and more helpful… your message or reading the comments and realizing I’m not that strange about collecting and thinking about creating instead of actually doing! Found a 2016 dog eared article “spend more time Being not Doing” going to transcribe in one of my many pristine mixed media journals than draw and paint over it!! Thank you for your constant creative encouragement
This is so helpful. I so needed this as so many of your points describe me (buying new tools, paralyzed by perfectionism, YT tutorials instead of art). One thing I've been trying lately is to take an old unfinished piee of art and just add to it in some way. It's less pressure because I've already felt like I've given up on it, so it's not the dreaded "blank page/canvas" and it's lower stakes. A few times, I've actually ended up with something interesting. Have been reading a book called "Tiny Habits," which has been pretty helpful as well.
You know what, you're right on the monkey? I feel Procrastinating whenever i took out my painting stuff. I did some paintings over the years, but very lazy and it took many years to complete an art. To fix this, i bought some "Paint with number" arts from online shops and get into action. Now, I really fell in Love with with it and I'm completing it and have paste it on my walls. As I can see my work on the wall, that makes me to keep going and i kept doing it. This way, I allow the Love for Painting more and drawing, sketching more 😍🥰🥰 I can't stop and I'm going to continue it...😜🥰 It's like have my own Art Gallery at home.😇
Thank you so much! I have exactly this problem in my life, i have nice things to do my art in different ways, but now i don't know how start again, i feel so afraid to ruin my materials because i was very poor in the past and in that moment only had paper and a pencil, but i did a lot of good stuff, now, i have materials but i remember that every time when i take my paints or a single sheet from my sketch book and i feel very bad, its a kind of fault feeling.
Now i understand all my problems, i need to take away all the bad feelings of me of my past to live my dream future.
Thank you so much! From the bottom of my heart 😊
I use the time listening to you, sir, to sketch, doodle, and think deeply. It is rarely "productive" in the finished work sense, but I leave the experience better in every way.
Practice makes better, not perfect. Perfect is an illusion. I heard that somewhere recently - maybe one of your posts?
Gosh I'm so glad I found this video! This hits spot on for me. I get confused as to why I've been craving to do art for several years now, but didn't have the space to do it. Now have more space but not much time or energy in my chaos of disorganization. There's always excuses and reasons why I can't do my art!😣 Thank you for sharing how taking those small baby steps each day doing some form of art is so important! My problem is... besides being a procrastinator I'm also a perfectionist. So I feel if I get some form of art project started that I have to be so fully focused that it has to be perfect! The points you made here in taking those baby steps each day are really helpful, thank you🙏🖌🎨
Just what I needed to hear, constantly buying new art supplies and not really starting much! Suffering from imposter syndrome but now going to take your advice.
I recently started a sketchbook devoted solely to blind contour drawing and 15 second to 40 second gesture drawing. Absolutely no pressure for prefect drawings with that criteria. I find myself sketching almost every day now, all the while developing my ability to actually see what I'm drawing. FYI - Recently bought A Life In Hand after watching one of your videos about it. I'm on my second read.
Love love love these points….I’m ADHD and if you know anything about this, I get so distracted by EVERYTHING AROUND ME, ALL THE TIME… tomorrow morning, I will set up/write a timetable and try extra hard to concentrate on each task like never before, THANK YOU!
❤❤❤❤❤ As I’ve been an artist for almost 32 years and I’ve learned to be myself as a unique artist amongst myself❤❤❤❤❤ Happy Arting❤❤❤❤
Thank you so so much for such a helpful video. I was surprised that I am not the only one doing the things you mentioned. I wish I could like your video 1000 times. 🥰
My quote to fight perfectionism is from Edward Scissors Hands..."I'm not finished". Because I'm never finished, learning, creating, and trying. I can leave a page unfinished and move on...come back to it later...cover it over or add to it.
I needed this...Been procrastinating for years..waiting for my art area to be completed and perfect! You are right! Its not done and its not going to be and yes I have everything I need..and then some. Just gotta do it! Ive also bought every book on creativity there is..in the end they all say the same thing...just do it. Thank you!
Love this, so true
Another great topic to touch on and help us work through Danny.
Thank you for always encouraging others.❤
I’m totally GUILTY of procrastination !!
🙈🙉🙊🐵🐒🙈🙉🙊🐵🐒
wow! this is me! I'm 69 years old and I've always thought of my self as a creative person. But like you said, I would put more effort into gathering the tools, the supplies, or the reference materials than actually doing the project. I can't wait to start trying some of these ideas. Thank you so much for this video.
I suffer very much from the symptoms you have described. But now that you have helped me to identify them, I am better prepared to tackle them. Thank you for your advice.
😊 thank you Danny, as always very insightful. I'll rewatch it because there is so much valuable information in it. But I'll create something first 😅😅 yes, no procrastination this time.
I have noticed that now I have gotten ALL the art supplies that my interest is gone in making art…sure had fun gathering…
Why????!!!!!
Maybe you just enjoy shopping? Make a deal with yourself, you can only buy new stuff if you use it or draw it.
I love this advice video. I typically dont watch videos like this because advice on procrastination typically does not help people who suffer with executive dysfunction, but a lot of your advice includes tips on how I try to overcome mine. I feel this is great advice for anyone regardless of how their brain is wired.
I'd also just like to point out that "draw with me" streams are a great way to be held accountable to draw! You dont even have to know how to do Twitch or TH-cam streams or have a large social media following to do it. I was once in a call with friends on Discord while working away on a big project with a rapidly approaching deadline when one friend expressed he wished he could see me draw. So, on a whim, I disconnected from the call on my computer, reconnected on my phone, and propped up my phone so that I could use my camera to record myself drawing. And lemme tell you: my friends LOVED it. They were still talking about it the next day. They constantly wanted to know when the next one would be! I ended up having to buy an overhead camera mount for my phone so they could get a better view. Even when I had no idea what to draw and was just scribbling random things into my sketchbook, they always enjoyed it. I unfortunately had to stop when I moved out of that apartment, but I'm excited to get my camera mount out of storage as soon as possible so I can start again. A lot of our friends and family love our art more than they express, so setting up a time to chat with them while allowing them to watch us work is not only a great way to hold ourselves accountable, but also bring joy to our friends and family.
I let the video play, picked up my sketch book and played. All while your words encouraged me. Thank you.
I was working at both Procreate and watercolor art for a great while a couple of months ago and stopped because life got in the way with work and family. However, creating art is always important to me even if I had to take a small hiatus from it. Therefore, this great video jolted me back into reality like a loving "cattle prod"--Lol. Thank you so much for your TH-cam channel and this great video--very true about procrastination and very inspirational about the need to be proactive in creating art daily.♥
What a great video. So helpful as it’s full of very practical tips.
You speak so well and so encouragingly. Thank you.
The thing is, creating is work, good work, mentally exhilerating, but then draining. I have only so much mental energy a day. Sometimes it's got be used for organising my life (doctor's appointments, grocery shopping, laundry, meal prep, replying to a friend's phone call, language learning, on and on. If I didn't care about anything else, and could let things slide, I'd spend all my time being creative because I very much like it. But sometimes, my brain needs to just relax, to pet my cat, to stare at the neighbour's huge tree, to look at TH-cam images, to learn things, and fill back up with energy, so I can do the creative things. I don't see it as procrastination. I see it as an ebb and flow of energy. That's it.
Could it be that you see Art as a chore rather than a fun, relaxing hobby to engage in? Art should allow you to connect with your inner soul; your deepest thoughts emotions and whatnot, not an assignment to finish for the day. Your mind needs to relax and remember that you can draw your daunting day, after all that's what even some of the famous artists painted❤😊
Yes! I think its important to understand that organising your life, grocery shopping, cooking, responding to friends, cleaning, IS CREATIVE. Every day you create your life, your whole life and it does take energy.
Needed this. That opening scenario is such a reality...and great advice
Thanks Danny. You are the most motivational teacher.❤
Thank you….you are a gift to people like me
Thank you for these thoughts. In addition to buying supplies I don't use, I follow several art groups on Facebook. Between that and TH-cam tutorials, I become overwhelmed with all the options and end up doing nothing at all. Not sure yet if I will leave the Facebook groups, but I may stop following them so I don't see all the posts they generate.
Thank you for this so very much. It took me longer than a year to develop the habit of drawing daily. Your videos have helped me accomplish this. You rock.!
I like what you said, each piece of creative work is a victory. Of course I paraphrased, but I think I’ve got it. 😊👍🏻
I watched this video like a lecture from a proffesor, with full attention. So much valuable thoughts in it! Thanks!
Glad it was helpful!
I ended my dry spell yesterday with Draw with Me. It was a long hiatus. Both my jewelry production and drawing/painting pretty much ended. Perhaps I did need some hibernation who knows. I enjoyed the abandon that the varied supplies gave me while exploring the strengths and limitations of each. So I found the joy and k ow I need more of that. Thanks as always for the advice encouraging words.
Thank you for sharing such valuable information. I came across your video today while on my 1st day this week on medical rest from work. I feel it wasn't an accident for me to see your under these circumstances.
Boy! You pegged me right where I live!!! And I needed it! You Tube eats your life, if you let it.
Thank you for this set of genuinely concrete actions. This helps. I appreciate you.
I cut cotton paper into cue cards and challenged myself to use them up 3 times on each side practicing brush strokes and anything I want everywhere as if I am living ten years into the future. I love myself and prepare for myself and turn on a specific music list and put a picture of my friend smiling at me on my desk and do a bunch of puttering as if I were a school teacher setting up my class room and think of myself as a secretary adding details...first wash, so what...and then I want to add to it!
Thank you, Danny. I appreciate your videos and your gentle and dedicated guiding. 🙏 These videos are helpful to all of my life.
Danny, you are the Man. Your weekly email and your videos have been a tremendous help in my Art Journey. Thank you for what you do for us.😊
I’m an oil painter that paints vintage cars. Over the past several months, I’ve been taking my drawing pad , pens etc to work with me. I work on a drawing every time I take a break. It equals out to about 30-45 minutes of practice daily.
Thank U for changing my life and Open my eyes!❤
Thank you very much for your wise words!! 🥰
Thank you for this. It's been very enlightening. I've haven't been able to paint for some time. I'm gonna take smart.
I stopped watching after 3 minutes, because Danny said so. I’m drawing 😊
Thank you for making this. You make excellent points and provide great inspiration and ideas!! I just subscribed too! I’m not an artist..but I am an avid procrastinator!! Keep up your goodness! 🎉❤