No matter how many times I tell myself “Trust the process!”—I still hesitate sometimes. Especially when I’m trying something completely new or challenging.

So let me share how I cope with those fears (since I think this is pretty common for us artists).

1. Understand the real problem.

Knowledge is the key to overcoming almost anything. The first step is figuring out what’s really going on. Sometimes we blow small issues out of proportion and make a mountain out of a molehill. (I know I do!)

Ask yourself: is it really a problem, or just a speed bump?

For example, when painting in layers, it’s easy to feel impatient or frustrated—especially if you’re new to it. You might think it’s not happening fast enough or that you’re doing it wrong. 🙋

But here’s the thing: like building a house, painting has an order. Layers take time. That’s not a problem—it’s the process. Personally, I find that freeing. Once you accept that, painting becomes far less stressful.

2. Be prepared.

Most issues I run into come from skipping something important at the start.

For instance, if I’m working from a reference photo with a confusing area, I’ll sometimes think, “I’ll just figure it out later.” (Hint: that’s a red flag!)

It’s like starting a figure painting with an almost-correct anatomy sketch, planning to “fix it later.” When “later” comes, it’s too late—the painting goes wonky, and it may be impossible to fix.

Getting the basics down in a landscape composition is just as important as getting the anatomy of a figure correct. Nail the basics early, and you’ll avoid bigger problems down the road.

3. Keep it in perspective.

Painting is supposed to be fun! No one’s life hangs in the balance if you make a mistake.

The truth? The worst mistake you can make is to quit.

Let me repeat that: the worst mistake you can make is to quit.

Give yourself a break. Not every stroke will be perfect. (Sure, “every brushstroke counts” may have worked for John Singer Sargent, but that’s too much pressure for me!)

Not every painting needs to be a masterpiece either. (Believe me, I’ve painted some stinkers!) But those “imperfect” paintings are valuable too—they teach us things.

And that’s progress.

Remember: progress over perfection is how we move forward.

Enjoy the journey!

p.s. Ready to make real progress with your skies (and take the stress out)? Painting Dramatic Clouds 2.0 opens for enrollment October 10. Join the waitlist today to get your advance supply list now and a special loyalty discount when enrollment opens.

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