12:55 PM, Wednesday December 11th 2024
You are not lazy—far from it. Would a lazy person take the time to reflect and write this post? No. Recognize first that what you’re feeling isn’t laziness but a common struggle: the loss of motivation. Let’s explore why this happens and how to move forward.
Motivation is a tricky thing. It feels boundless one moment and vanishes the next. That’s why people say, “Don’t rely on motivation; build habits.” But even habits require some motivation to start, and motivation itself is tied to your values, experiences, and mindset. It’s natural for it to fade over time, especially when tasks feel difficult or non-rewarding. This isn’t a flaw—it’s part of being human.
The good news is that motivation can be reignited, often by rethinking the task at hand. For example, ask yourself: Why did I want to draw in the first place? What excited you about this journey? Revisit those feelings. Seek out artwork or ideas that inspire you. Try to view your drawing practice through a fresh lens—find something novel and compelling about it. Our brains thrive on novelty; it’s what keeps us engaged and curious.
You might also be facing hidden mental barriers. If your brain associates drawing with frustration or failure, it might be exaggerating the difficulty of starting again. Combat this by setting a tiny goal that’s impossible to argue against. Draw one box. If that feels too much, draw one line. Once you’ve done that, reflect: Was it as hard as you imagined? Often, the first step is the hardest, but it can also be the most freeing.
Finally, consider this: drawing isn’t just about making art. It’s a form of exploration—a way to understand how your mind interprets the world. Practicing illustration sharpens your perception of space and form. It’s not just an artistic skill; it’s a cognitive exercise that changes how you see reality itself. Yes, it’s humbling—our vision often outpaces our ability—but that’s what makes the process so rewarding. Each flaw you notice is proof of your growth, showing you what to work on next.
How would you frame drawing practice in a way that excites you? For me, it’s not just practice—it’s a journey into perception, humility, and creativity. When I struggle, I remind myself of that. Maybe you can find a perspective that resonates with you, one that turns drawing into something you can’t wait to explore.
Co-written with ChatGPT. Original text: https://chatgpt.com/share/67598b9f-59f8-800a-a884-ec14341dbc98