Overcoming the “I’m Not Good Enough” Mentality in Art (Hint: You Totally Are!)

Overcoming the "I'm not good enough" Mentality in Art and having a positive mindset.

Raise your hand if you've ever stared at your artwork and thought, Ugh, why does this look like a potato when I was aiming for a majestic horse? 🙋‍♀️

Or maybe you’ve scrolled through social media, admiring all those “effortless” paintings and felt like everyone else was born with a magic paintbrush while you got… a crayon that’s been through the washing machine.

If that sounds familiar, welcome to the club. It’s called Being an Artist, and every single one of us has been there. Yes, even that artist you admire—the one who seems like they’ve got it all figured out—felt like a mess at some point. The difference? They kept going.

My First Brush With Self-Doubt

I still remember one of my early painting classes. I had all my supplies laid out, ready to create something beautiful… and then, doubt crept in.

"What if this turns out terrible?"
"Why can’t my hand do what my brain sees?"
"Maybe I’m just not cut out for this."

And guess what? That first painting was terrible. Like, hide-it-in-the-closet-and-never-speak-of-it-again kind of terrible. But I kept painting. The next one was slightly better. And the next. And now? That version of me would never believe what I can do today.

Because here’s the thing—talent isn’t something you have or don’t have. It’s something you build.

Flipping the Script: Talent is a Skill, Not a Superpower

Somewhere along the way, we got this idea that artists are just born knowing how to create amazing things. But let me tell you the truth:

✔️ Every artist starts as a beginner.
✔️ No one is born knowing how to mix colors perfectly or draw a horse that doesn’t look like a potato.
✔️ The only difference between you and the artists you admire? They’ve logged more hours of practice.

Your job isn’t to be instantly amazing. Your job is to keep showing up—even when your inner critic is screaming. Consistency is KEY! If only me working out was lol.

A Little Mindset Shift That Works Wonders

Instead of focusing on what’s “wrong” in your art, try keeping a progress journal.

Here’s how it works:
🎨 Snap a picture of your artwork every time you finish something.
📒 Write one or two things you did well (yes, there’s always something!).
🚀 Flip back through it when doubt creeps in and see just how far you’ve come.

Over time, you’ll notice something magical—your work is improving. And seeing that proof will make it easier to quiet that pesky “I’m not good enough” voice.

And remember, Most works go through "puberty" phase! It goes through a weird stage then it blossoms!! LOL

Ready to Tap Into Your Art Zone?

If you’re feeling stuck, the best way to move forward is to keep creating. And sometimes, a little guidance can make all the difference.

That’s why I created Create & Inspire—a place where you can learn, grow, and build confidence in your art. Whether you’re a total beginner or picking up your brushes after years away, you’ll find tutorials designed to help you inch forward, one step at a time.

So here’s my question for you: What’s one thing you’ve improved on in the last six months? Let me know in the comments or send me a message—I’d love to celebrate your wins with you!

And remember, you are good enough. You always have been. 💜