Guest writer: Suzie Wilson
Artists tend to be sensitive, caring, and frequently introverted people who experience things profoundly and feel very deeply. Living in the modern world – with its fast pace, often toxic nature, and excess focus on materialism – can be difficult for them. Many end up developing mental health challenges, from social anxiety to depression, as a result. Quite a few take to substances like alcohol to cope.
If you can relate, you should know that being healthy and having a happy, fulfilling life as an artist, despite everything, is possible. It can be a challenge, but if you work at it, you can pull it off. Here is how you could go about doing so:
Work with your nature
You must make peace with yourself and your nature instead of resisting or comparing yourself to others. Your nature is your biggest strength – your ability to feel or experience things deeply gives your art depth and character. While it can make your life harder, it's nothing you can't work with. Some suggestions are making a list of things you like about yourself, being kind to yourself, not resisting your introversion (if applicable), and committing to look after yourself better.
Create a self-care routine
A self-care routine can help you keep your mind, body, and heart in excellent shape. Depending on your practice, you can reduce your stress levels, reduce your anxiety, and be happier. Some suggestions are exercising, eating healthy, picking up an enjoyable hobby, meditating, reading, and hanging out with positive people. Tiny Buddha offers other suggestions.
Set boundaries
Artists could be better at boundary setting. They tend to take on too much, allow others to take advantage of them, and generally struggle to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Learning to set boundaries can be incredibly helpful. It can make your workload manageable, help you minimize toxic interactions, and make you healthier and happier. Here are some tips on setting healthy boundaries.
Drink less alcohol
As mentioned earlier, artists are prone to addictions like alcohol (a form of escapism). Needless to say, limiting your alcohol intake and avoiding addiction is a good idea. It can be hard to quit alone, so don't hesitate to seek professional help. A rehab center is arguably the most effective way to break free from an addiction and recover afterward. Rehab is expensive, but you can usually pay with your health insurance. Get in touch with your insurance company to verify your coverage. Considering an inpatient facility, looking at factors like accommodation type, accreditations, location, treatment modalities, and patient testimonials is essential.
Build up your resilience
.
You can't control your sensitivity but can build up your resilience. That means you can reduce your sensitive nature's impact on you and face uncomfortable day-to-day situations and challenging circumstances better. Some ways to do so are by getting comfortable with stepping out of your comfort zone, believing in yourself, building up a solid support network that understands you, being self-aware of your triggers, and practicing your people skills.
Pursue your dreams by earning a teaching degree
Only when you follow your dreams do you feel happy and fulfilled. Don't let your social anxiety or introverted nature stop you. For example, if you've always wanted to be an art teacher but want to avoid attending a crowded university, you could pursue an online degree. That way, your anxiety won't be a problem; you can study at your convenience. If you're choosing an online school, you must pick an accredited one with reasonable rates. Here are the steps to get a bachelor of education.
Conclusion
It often takes artists longer to find their feet and get comfortable with themselves. That means don't expect yourself to suddenly be a well-adjusted, healthy person overnight. But if you make it a point to prioritize your well-being and look after yourself, you will find that it gets better – and easier – with time.
__
Thank you, Suzie, for another outstanding contribution to this blog.
I hope you enjoyed this blog post. Please share this with your artist friend who may need this.
Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Color Your Life!
Love, Drica