Back in March, I posted that I was starting a sketchbook challenge as part of my 40 for 40 list. Since then, I’ve struggled to keep up the practice, ending up with only a few sketches and mixed media explorations to show for all my best-laid plans. When I think about what’s kept me from committing the time, it’s really two things. First, it’s intimidating. I know I’ll be bad, which is kind of the point – I have to practice to be better – but nonetheless the fear stops me before I start. Second, time. I started going to the gym most weekday mornings (another 40 for 40 list goal) and by the time I return home after work, I’m beat. I can barely feed myself or tend to chores. By that point in the day, even the idea of 15 measly minutes of practice, exhausts me.
While I know what’s kept me from fulfilling this goal, I can’t say I have the vaguest idea how to overcome the hurdles. Still, I must persist and so, with cautious optimism, I am rebooting the sketchbook challenge. To try and build in some accountability, I plan to post every week a little about my progress. I may even put pride aside and show some of my sketches. Who knows, if I can keep it up for the next month and the 10 years to follow, I might actually get decent! If you have any tips or advice, I’d love to hear. I need all the help I can get!
Photo by Hope House Press on Unsplash.
