As the New Year begins, there’s a sense of possibility and a fresh start. But while goals and resolutions fill our minds, there’s one foundational truth with every step forward: belief. And to the point, belief in your art and yourself!
Belief is the invisible thread that connects our thoughts, actions, and outcomes. Without it, even the most talented artist can feel stuck. With it, mountains move, canvases fill, and visions come to life.
In my own 40+ years as an artist, I’ve practiced this mindset time and time again. It’s helped me manifest my dreams—completing meaningful paintings, exhibiting in art galleries and museums, producing DVDs, publishing books, branded products, brand Ambassador, traveling the world to teach and share my art, and even being featured on TV shows and in magazines.
And I’ve noticed—things always seem to go better when I keep to it! I share these experiences not to boast, but because I hope they inspire you to trust in your own path and believe in what’s possible for your art.
So how do we nurture belief in our creative practice? Here are three practical ways to strengthen this essential mindset in your art…
1. Start Small
Every masterpiece begins with a single brushstroke, a rough sketch, or a spark of an idea.
- Set small, achievable creative goals that you can realistically complete.
- Celebrate those wins—every finished sketch, every hour spent at your easel, every new idea brought to life.
Small successes build confidence, and confidence strengthens belief.
“Forward is forward, no matter how small the step.”
2. Affirm Your Intentions
Words are powerful. The things we say to ourselves shape what we believe about our abilities and our art. They affect us emotionally, intellectually, and physically. What we say to ourselves can inspire, motivate, and comfort, but words can also hurt and offend. Choose wisely. 
Use positive affirmations to align with your heart’s desire like:
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- “I am an artist, and my work matters.”
- “Every step I take brings me closer to my creative vision.”
- “My art career takes me around the world.”
- “I believe.”
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Write these affirmations down. Say them out loud. Use the phrases in PRESENT tense. Like your are already living your dreams. Let them become a habit.
When your mind aligns with your intentions, the belief in your art and career grows stronger.
3. Visualize the Outcome
Before you pick up your brush or shape that clay, pause for a moment. Close your eyes and imagine your finished piece.
- See the colors, the textures, the shapes coming together effortlessly.
- Imagine the satisfaction you’ll feel when you step back and admire your completed work.
This isn’t wishful thinking—it’s a proven tactic used by artists, athletes, and successful leaders alike. Visualization bridges the gap between muscle memory, belief and action.
Jean-Claude Killy, the legendary Olympic skier, famously used visualization techniques to prepare for his gold-medal runs. I even used his SyberVision program in the 1980s when I was learning to ski, and the results were incredible. Though the program isn’t widely available anymore, its principles remain timeless.
It’s a practice of aligning your thoughts with your body and your intentions with your outcomes. Every stroke of the brush, every movement of your hand, becomes more confident and purposeful when your mind has already rehearsed success.
“Visualize to actualize”
If All Else Fails…
On the days when belief in your art feels far away—when the blank canvas feels too intimidating or the creative spark won’t come—remember this:
Believe in your goals.
Believe in your resilience.
Believe that even on the hard days, forward is forward.
And if all else fails, come back to these three simple words of wisdom:
Join Me for More Inspiration and Growth:
- Explore My Online Art Course: Dive deeper into creativity, mindset, and skill-building at Lori’s Fine Art Tips School.
- Join Me in the Cotswolds This May 2025: Experience an immersive, inspiring art workshop surrounded by the beauty of the English countryside. Workshop Information
Wishing you a year filled with courage, creativity, and belief.
