Hey there everyone! Today, I wanted to talk about something that many of us, especially those in the creative field, might relate to—feeling overwhelmed and underappreciated in our work. As a digital artist who creates art prints, stickers, digital coloring books, and more, I’ve experienced the highs and lows of this profession. Sometimes it feels like you’re drowning in overwork, lack of sales, and the constant hustle for commissions.
Running an art business takes up a lot of time and energy. Despite the satisfaction I get from creating art, the payoff in terms of sales and recognition hasn’t always been great. There are many factors to consider, such as whether the art is relatable or of the quality people are looking for. Marketing plays a significant role as well, and it’s something I’m continually learning about. I believe many of you who are trying to start your art career can relate to this struggle. It’s important to know you’re not alone in feeling this way, and even if you have doubts, changes can be made to eventually get you to a better place.
Sometimes, it’s necessary to pivot. This doesn’t mean giving up on art altogether but perhaps finding a different balance or taking on other work to maintain stability. The unpredictability of freelance work can be challenging. You might have plenty of work one month and almost nothing the next. This fluctuation can be incredibly frustrating and demoralizing, especially when it affects your ability to pay bills. It’s okay to reassess and consider other options that provide more stability in the meantime.
Another factor that can make you feel overwhelmed is the constant comparison to other artists on social media. It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing your work to others and feeling inadequate. This comparison is not healthy for your mental well-being. Everyone progresses at their own pace, and everyone’s journey is unique. It’s important to recognize your own progress and not be blinded by the achievements of others.
I guess what I’m trying to say is that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed, but there are ways to manage these feelings. Sometimes our hearts want one thing, but our brains are signaling that we need to think more critically about our choices. Making adjustments now can help us achieve our goals in the future. For me, I’ve realized that while I want my art business to succeed, it hasn’t been working out as I hoped. Therefore, I need to pivot and find other ways to support myself in the meantime.
This doesn’t mean I’m closing my shop or stopping creating art. It simply means that I need to take a step back and critically assess what’s not working. It’s a difficult decision, but it’s necessary for my well-being. I’ll continue to create and share my art, but I’ll also be exploring other avenues to maintain stability.
To all the artists out there feeling the same way, remember that it’s okay to take a step back and reevaluate. You’re not alone in this struggle, and it’s important to take care of your mental health. Whether it’s finding a part-time job, taking a break from social media comparisons, or seeking support from fellow artists, there are ways to manage the overwhelm and keep moving forward.
Thank you for your continued support and for being part of this journey with me. It means a lot to have a community that understands and encourages each other. Let’s keep supporting one another and finding ways to thrive, both creatively and personally.
Warm regards,
Latisha
Latisha Taylor Art 