The big mistake we all make—myself included—is not going far enough in the beginning.
It makes sense why we hold back. When we push too far, our work often looks worse before it gets better. That’s when the doubt creeps in, and we feel the urge to backtrack. But here’s the key: you have to go through that messy, uncertain phase to reach something truly great.
In today’s vlog, I share a perfect example of this while working on a painting. I wanted rich, deep colors, but first, I had to overstate the grays and darks—pushing the painting beyond what felt comfortable. Only then could I bring the color back in and create something powerful.
The lesson? Push yourself to the edges. It might feel uncomfortable, but the payoff is always worth it.
Have you ever held back in your art, only to realize later that you needed to push further? Comment and share your experience—I’d love to hear about it.
Hope this inspires you in your own work!
– Nicholas
P.S. The Art of Your Life Workshop is where we go deeper into all of this—how pushing through discomfort leads to breakthroughs in your art. It’s free, and it’s happening March 3rd. Click here to join us.
Click here to listen to and subscribe to the Art2Life Podcast.
Hi! I’m
Nicholas Wilton
the founder of Art2Life.
With over 20 years experience as a working artist and educator, I’ve developed a systematic approach that brings authenticity, spontaneity and joy back into the creative process.
Join me and artists from all over the world in our Free Art2Life Artists Facebook Group or learn more here about Art2Life.
