Ever reach that halfway mark of the year and think, “Wait, what just happened?” 😳 It’s a reality check when you realize those grand resolutions have turned into dust, or worse, are just distant memories. If you’ve been daydreaming about starting new creative projects since retirement but find them lingering on the back burner, trust me—you’re not alone! But don’t stress; it’s totally normal, and there are super simple ways to get back on track.
Let’s Reassess Your Retirement Goals
Okay, but can we talk about taking a moment to reassess those retirement goals? We often sketch out plans that seem perfect, only to find that life throws us a curveball. If your once-exciting plans now feel irrelevant, it’s time to let them go—along with any guilt. Seriously, you don’t need that negativity in your life! 🌈
For instance, if that dream of attending a painting workshop in Tuscany feels a bit too ambitious right now, don’t sweat it! There are plenty of local classes and workshops that could spark your creativity without the hefty travel expense. Remember, it’s all about finding what works for you in the here and now.
And let’s be real: it can be tempting to fall into procrastination mode, thinking you have all the time in the world. Spoiler alert: time is a precious commodity! 🕒 If you’re physically and mentally ready to dive into those projects, now is your moment. So, what are some quick steps you can take to make room for your artistic endeavors? Let’s dive in!
Focusing on What Really Matters
Once you’ve pinpointed your goals and ditched the impractical ones, it’s time to prioritize. Unpopular opinion: narrowing your focus to just one or two key goals can seriously boost your chances of success. You know the 80/20 principle? Focus on the 20% that brings you 80% of the joy and fulfillment.
When I was contemplating a full-time painting career, I was terrified about losing my steady income. The thought of not selling paintings was daunting. But in 2009, I made a commitment: I would create ten high-quality paintings for a Christmas market. I had to squeeze in painting during my free time, but it was totally doable. 🖌️ By the end of it, I not only produced those paintings, but the experience gave my confidence a serious boost, paving the way for my art career.
Now, let’s talk patience. It might sound cliché, but patience is a game-changer. I’ve witnessed so many people toss their plans aside at the first bump in the road. A frustrating day or a silly argument can spark an excuse to abandon your creative pursuits. But here’s the real kicker: losing patience with yourself can be just as detrimental. If your artwork isn’t coming together as you envisioned, don’t throw in the towel. You’ve got the talent; you just need to persist and allow yourself the grace to grow.
Creating Your Creative Space
Having a dedicated workspace is crucial for any artist. If you’re constantly packing and unpacking your materials, it can quickly turn into a hassle, leading to even more excuses to put off your projects. If you have access to a spare room or even a shed—lucky you! But if you’re like me and have to make do with a small corner of your bedroom, don’t let that stop you. My first studio was a mere thirty square feet, and I managed to create countless paintings in that tiny space. 💡
Need some inspiration for maximizing your space? Pinterest is filled with clever ideas! And let’s not forget about the power of books. They’ve been my mentors through every creative obstacle. If a real-life mentor isn’t in the cards for you, dive into the pages of a good book. The wisdom of great artists, leaders, and entrepreneurs is just waiting to be explored.
Here’s the bottom line: nothing happens if you don’t take action. If painting is your passion, don’t just stare at that pristine canvas—get some paint on it! If writing is your thing, type those words! Whether it’s quilting or any other hobby, start creating and build that momentum.
So, what do you think? Are you ready to get those creative plans back on track? 🎨✨ I’d love to hear about your personal retirement goals and any tips you have for overcoming creative roadblocks. Let’s inspire each other! 🌟
And just for a little extra fun, I’m sharing a gem with you! Check out my free e-book, The Artist’s Survival Guide, available on Amazon. I hope it inspires you as much as it has inspired me.
