Please don't misunderstand me, I am not advocating perfectionism...I believe that perfection is an illusion that is unattainable. I tend to focus on the process of creation, not just on the end result. Evaluate your success not only in terms of what you accomplish but also in terms of how much you enjoy the task. Recognize that there can be value in the process of pursuing a goal. Understand that many positive things can only be learned by making mistakes. When you make a mistake ask, "What can I learn from this experience?" More specifically, think of a recent mistake you have made and list all the things you learned from it.
Healthy Striving
Healthy striving is quite different from perfectionism. Unhealthy perfectionists base their worth on external expectations.
A Healthy Striver
- Sets high standards, but just beyond reach
- Enjoys process as well as outcome
- Bounces back from failure and disappointment quickly and with energy
- Keeps normal anxiety and fear of failure and disapproval within bounds––uses them to create energy
- Sees mistakes as opportunities for growth and learning
- Reacts positively to helpful criticism
I knew that I wanted to do a figure walking on the shore...something quiet...watercolors are difficult for me as I tend to overwork them and make mud...at left the background is blocked in with watercolors...right is a closer look at the background...today I did not overwork the background...i forced myself to let the watercolors work without messing with them a lot...i think it worked... for the background...
i am not entirely satisfied with the figure...it was not coming easily, so i mucked with it for a long time...then i decided to set it aside for today and return to it at another time...that is what i learned today...sometimes it is best to walk away...
Some of the above adapted from information by the Counseling Center at the University of Illinois...
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then i decided to set it aside for today and return to it at another time...that is what i learned today...sometimes it is best to walk away...
I think that is a good lesson-- and one that I need to take to heart more often. I like your results, so your decision to walk away for awhile was a good one. Very smart.
I personally like the figure as it is. Of course, I'm bringing my own emotional reaction to the painting and I see myself in the figure. It will be interesting to see where you take it.
I make so many mistakes in my art that turn out to be great so now i look forward to those mistakes - lol.
Oh, she is beautfiul!!! And yes, healthy perfectionsism is good. You always share such inspiring and sound advice... I love it!
i am a big believer in setting something aside for a time & returning with a fresh perspective.
but i must say about this work that i very much like the figure just as she is...so willowy & thoughtful in her posture, as a part of a gentle sea breeze.
Excellent advice and insight!
Thank you!
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