Catapillar to Butterfly

March 18, 2025


As artists, we often forget that the path to success is not a straight line. It’s a journey, a process that requires patience, perseverance, and a great deal of self-compassion. The work we produce and the growth we experience as artists is built over time, and it’s important to embrace that time as part of the creative process.

Myth of Instant Success

Many artists fall into the trap of thinking that they need to produce extraordinary work right from the start. With the rise of social media, it’s easy to see highly polished works and the curated, idealized versions of other artists’ lives. But what most people fail to realize is that every artist has their own journey, with ups and downs, successes and failures.

The myth of instant success is just that—a myth. The greatest artists in history didn’t start out great. They spent years experimenting, making mistakes, and honing their skills. The work that resonates most with people often comes from years of refinement, not from a single, fleeting moment of brilliance.

Power of Patience

One of the most important things an artist can do is give themselves the time to grow and develop. The creative process is not something that can be rushed. It’s about allowing yourself to experiment without the pressure of immediate results. When you give yourself that permission, it opens up the space for creativity to flourish in a way that feels authentic and uninhibited.

Allow yourself to be patient with your growth. Understand that with every painting, every sketch, every project, you are building something. You are refining your voice, expanding your skills, and learning more about what you truly want to express. All of this takes time—and that time is invaluable.

Effort and Consistency

A successful art practice requires consistent effort. It’s not about waiting for the “perfect” moment or the sudden surge of inspiration; it’s about showing up every day and doing the work. Even on days when you don’t feel inspired, the act of working—whether it’s sketching, experimenting with new techniques, or simply reflecting on your past work—adds to the larger picture.

The more effort you put into your art practice, the more you build a foundation for growth. That effort, over time, will begin to pay off in ways that you may not immediately notice. Your style will evolve. Your confidence will grow. New opportunities will arise. But none of that will happen if you aren’t willing to put in the time and consistency required.

Letting Go of Expectations

Expectations can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, they can drive you to work harder and set goals for your growth. On the other hand, they can become a source of frustration and self-doubt, especially when things don’t go as planned. As an artist, it’s important to eliminate rigid expectations and allow space for things to unfold naturally.

Don’t be so hard on yourself when things don’t go as expected. Instead, trust the process. Every challenge, every piece of “failed” work is a lesson that will inform your next steps. The road to creative success is paved with both triumphs and setbacks, and each of them is valuable in its own way. Let go of the need for immediate gratification, and focus on the journey itself.

Confidence Through Time

With time, all will be revealed. One of the most empowering things you can do as an artist is to trust that your growth will happen in its own time. Confidence comes from the knowledge that you’re committed to your practice, that you’re putting in the effort, and that your unique creative voice will evolve as it’s meant to.

As you continue on your artistic journey, remember that time is on your side. There’s no rush to arrive at some predetermined destination. Your artistic path is yours to shape, and every step along the way contributes to the overall picture. So, continue on confidently, knowing that the more time you give yourself to grow, the more you will discover about your craft and yourself.

Grow In to It

The path of an artist is one of constant growth and development. It’s a journey that requires patience, perseverance, and a willingness to let go of rigid expectations. Understand that success and creativity don’t happen overnight, and that every effort you put into your practice brings you closer to your fullest potential. Be kind to yourself, trust the process, and remember that with time, your creative voice will become clearer, stronger, and more powerful.