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4 Steps to Overcoming Procrastination as a Creative

Procrastination happens to everyone. And yet, it has that uncanny ability to put off what we know we should be doing, often leading to frustration and missed opportunities like Open Calls on HUG!

But, fear not - overcoming procrastination isn't an insurmountable challenge. With the right mindset and strategies, artists can reclaim their creative time and momentum.

Intrigued? Let’s dive in!

So… what is procrastination?

Recent studies have shown that procrastination isn't a result of laziness; it's a strategy to sidestep negative emotions such as anxiety, frustration, confusion, and boredom.

So, if you are starting to procrastinate, take a moment to identify what you are feeling. This can be done by doing a short meditation and asking one’s self - What am I feeling in this moment?

And, most importantly, remember you are not the only one who is feeling this way.

#1: Find your why

The first step to overcoming procrastination lies a clear understanding of why you create, or as Rebecca Rose states, “When your gut screams at you to act on it, you’d better listen.”

Delve into the depths of your passion and purpose as an artist. What drives you to pick up that brush, sculpting tool, or musical instrument? Connecting with your intrinsic motivation provides a powerful anchor against the tides of procrastination. Whether it's a desire to express your emotions, tell stories, or evoke emotions in others, identifying your "why" fuels your creative fire and propels you forward, even when the temptation to procrastinate looms large.

#2: Break your work into smaller steps

The enormity of creative projects can often feel overwhelming, leading to procrastination. Break down your creative endeavors into manageable chunks. Instead of fixating on the mammoth task of completing an entire painting or composing an entire album, focus on smaller, actionable steps.

Set achievable goals for each session, whether it's sketching a rough draft, brainstorming melodies, or experimenting with color palettes. By breaking your work into bite-sized portions, you not only alleviate the pressure but also gain a sense of progress with each completed step, keeping procrastination at bay.

#3: Do something hard

If you’ve been following Randi’s running journey lately, she has been delivering A LOT of wisdom of what happens when you embrace discomfort.

Procrastination often stems from a fear of failure or perfectionism. Instead of shying away from difficult tasks, confront them head-on. Push yourself beyond your comfort zone by tackling the aspects of your craft that intimidate you the most.

Whether it's experimenting with a new medium, exploring unconventional techniques, or confronting creative blocks, embracing the challenges fosters growth and resilience. Remember, it's through facing adversity that artists hone their skills and unearth new depths of creativity.

#4: Be kind to yourself

In the pursuit of excellence, always remember to be gentle with yourself. The creative journey is riddled with highs and lows, successes and setbacks.

Acknowledge that occasional procrastination is part of the process, not a reflection of your worth as a creative. Cultivate self-compassion and understanding during those moments of procrastination. Instead of berating yourself, practice giving yourself grace.

Closing Thoughts

Procrastination may linger like a shadow, but it doesn't have to dictate your creative journey! Remember, overcoming procrastination is not a one-time conquest but a continuous journey of self-discovery and growth. Follow our steps and let us know how you do - good luck!

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