`This month I wanted to discuss and talk about Positivity. Why, I hear you ask? I am a believer in putting positive thoughts out into the Universe and I think positivity is great for the mind, body and soul. I think Positivity is also a great survival tool to have especially when we are all leading a life that might be challenging, stressful and/or complex. Taking some time to be positive and promote positivity in the most difficult of situations can be helpful. Let me explain more… 

Positivity is a state of mind that is characterized by optimistic and hopeful thoughts, feelings, and actions. It is a way of thinking that focuses on the good, rather than dwelling on the negative. When we cultivate positivity in our lives, it can have a significant impact on our emotions and mental wellbeing.

Art is a form of self-expression, and artists put a great deal of themselves into their creations.

Positivity can help to reduce stress and anxiety by shifting our focus away from negative thoughts and feelings. It can also help to boost our mood, increase our motivation and improve our overall sense of well-being. I explore this topic in my online course, Mindfully Creative, so when we approach life with a positive outlook, we are better able to cope with challenges and setbacks, and we are more likely to find solutions to problems. I know you might be thinking, “Yes Mark, that is easy to say, but how can we put that into practice?” 

One way to cultivate positivity is to practice gratitude. This involves taking time each day to reflect on the positive things in our lives and expressing our appreciation for them. Another way is to surround ourselves with positive people and environments, which can help to influence our own thoughts and feelings. I really feel as Artists, we do experience negativity in various ways and I’d like to take a look at positivity from an artist perspective. 

Artists are often faced with self-doubt due to the subjective nature of their work. Art is a form of self-expression, and artists put a great deal of themselves into their creations. This vulnerability can lead to self-doubt and insecurity, as artists fear that their work may not be good enough or may not be well-received by others.

However, positivity and positive thinking can be incredibly helpful for artists struggling with self-doubt. By focusing on the positive aspects of their work, artists can cultivate confidence and self-assurance. This can be achieved through a variety of techniques, such as setting achievable goals, celebrating small successes, and practicing self-compassion.

Surround yourself with positive and supportive people.
Seek out friends, family members, or fellow artists who can provide encouragement and constructive feedback.

One way to practice positivity as an artist is to focus on the process rather than the outcome. Instead of fixating on the finished product, try to enjoy the act of creation itself. This can help to alleviate some of the pressure and expectations that can lead to self-doubt. There is a lot to be said about enjoying being in the present moment, without judgement, in the here and now.  Let me share a few examples from my experience. Think about when you share your work on social media, you look forward to feedback (positive and constructive) – I know I do. If I get a few likes and a couple of comments you might automatically think “why haven’t I received more comments than my last post? Is it not good? Turn that thinking around… I am so grateful that people have liked and commented on my work. Thinking in this way helps you set yourself in a different mood or mindset. I tend do this especially when I release a new tutorial on my YouTube channel; if my video struggles to get a few hundred views I think, “what is wrong” rather than being thankful for the people who took time to view my work. Next time you have a negative thought, try to flip that thinking around and make yourself think from a positive perspective. 

Another helpful technique is to surround yourself with positive and supportive people. Seek out friends, family members, or fellow artists who can provide encouragement and constructive feedback. This can help to create a positive and nurturing environment in which to create and grow as an artist.

In conclusion, artists may struggle with self-doubt due to the subjective nature of their work, but positivity and positive thinking can be incredibly helpful in overcoming these feelings. By focusing on the positive aspects of their work, setting achievable goals, and surrounding themselves with supportive people, artists can cultivate confidence and self-assurance, and continue to create and share their art with the world.

Positive thinking is a crucial element for artists to have in order to create their best work. Here are five helpful techniques that artists can use to cultivate positive thinking:

1. Gratitude journaling: Taking time each day to reflect on what you are grateful for can help shift your focus to the positive aspects of your life and art. Make a habit of writing down three things you are grateful for each day.
2. Affirmations: Use positive affirmations to reframe negative self-talk. Write down a few affirmations that resonate with you and repeat them to yourself each day. For example, “I am a talented artist” or “I am capable of creating beautiful work.”
3. Visualization: Visualize yourself succeeding in your art career. Imagine yourself creating your best work, receiving praise and recognition, and achieving your goals. This can help you stay motivated and focused on your vision.
4. Surround yourself with positivity: Surround yourself with people who support and encourage you. Seek out positive and uplifting art, music, and literature. Create a workspace that inspires and motivates you.
5. Practice self-care: Take care of your physical and emotional health. Get enough sleep, exercise regularly, and eat a healthy diet. Make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as meditation, mindfulness, yoga, or spending time in nature. When you take care of yourself, you will be better equipped to handle the challenges and stresses of the art world with a positive mindset.

If there is a topic you would like me to discuss or explore in my Monthly Blog, please drop me a message at the email address below. 

Check out Mark’s course on Smart Art Courses – an approach to art and creativity in a mindful way to help relax, unwind and be in the present moment. 

Mark from Mark J Ratcliffe Art  | Artist, Creator & Wellbeing Advocate.

Monthly Blog, written in his own words. @MarkJRatcliffeArt / markjratcliffeart@gmail.com