Every January, the gyms fill up.
My youngest son has a name for the people who arrive full of motivation with new year’s goals and work-life balance; he calls them resolutionists.
They show up with the best intentions, crowd the treadmills and classes for a few weeks, and then, suddenly, things settle down again.
Artists do this too.
January can feel like a loud month filled with big goals, bold declarations, and a sudden pressure to change everything at once. After 35+ years as a professional artist, I’ve learned that sustainable creative growth usually happens more quietly.
Instead of declaring sweeping resolutions, here are three gentle reminders for artists who don’t want to be resolutionists this year.
1. Keep Your Goals Small and Realistic
Yes, big plans and goals can be inspiring. But, mindful goals are the ones we actually return to.
Instead of overwhelming yourself with everything you should be doing, choose something simple and doable that fits into real life. Small, steady steps build confidence, and confidence builds momentum.
2. Be Thoughtful About Who You Tell
Sharing goals too widely can drain their energy and invite unnecessary pressure. Sometimes it’s better to keep intentions close or share them with one trusted, encouraging friend.
Quiet focus has a power of its own.
3. Celebrate Small Wins
Small victories matter more than we think.
For example:
Last fall, I finally bought myself a ukulele! I hadn’t played a musical instrument since I was 12, and it’s been something I’d dreamed of doing for years. My goal wasn’t mastery, but only to play a few Christmas carols for my grandkids. I did, and that small win felt good!
The same mindset applies in the art studio. Thoughtful choices, healthy habits, and steady work add up over time, even when those small goals don’t make for dramatic announcements.
A Quieter Way Forward
This January, maybe the goal isn’t to reinvent everything.
Perhaps it’s simply to be gentler and kinder with ourselves. Maybe the goal is simply about showing up at the easel and painting, and creating with kindness to ourselves. Creative growth doesn’t have to be loud to be meaningful.
If one of your goals this year is to create a healthier painting practice, I share my approach to solvent-free oil painting in my online course, Lori’s Fine Art Tips School—designed to support artists who want sustainability without overwhelm. Save 15% and use the coupon code Blog15, good through March 1, 2026.
Happy New Year!
