Why giving up is not an option (part 2)

After hitting my lowest point in my creative career, it felt like I had stepped through a magic door into a world that was colorful, happy, fluffy, and bouncy. Okay, I might be exaggerating a bit, but honestly, I was so buried under the pressure to perform that the joy of creating was almost completely suffocated. Thankfully, that joy I once felt while creating began to return. It was coming back!

Additionally, as I mentioned in my previous post, I was focused on developing my personal brand. What did I want to be known for? What would I be recognized as, or even asked for as an expert? I realized that it wasn’t about picture books or illustrations per se. As I sifted through my collection of books and the things I loved to draw the most, it struck me: CHARACTERS! It was so simple yet so bold. I had been searching for the answer to that question for such a long time, and the realization felt like a huge weight lifted off my chest. I could finally take a deep breath again.

After the initial excitement, I wanted to hold on to that wonderful feeling a little longer and I didn't want to risk losing it, as it felt so precious. I longed to play, to experience freedom without limitations, and to do whatever I wanted. So, I booked some sessions at an open ceramics studio, which I finally had time for. The tactile nature of crafting has been a part of me since childhood when I used to create small characters from wooden beads.

Coincidentally, that same week, a newsletter from Pictoplasma featuring an open call caught my attention. The timing was perfect. I was eager to participate, and I didn't care whether I would win anything; I just wanted to do it for the fun of it.

This marked the first step in a new direction for me. Suddenly, ideas began to flow, and I felt a sense of childish joy that was truly invigorating.

I’m sharing 5 things I learned during my journey:

Take action rather than overanalyze. Just begin without waiting for the perfect moment.

Do more of what really, really excites you, like a child experiencing joy.

I've started using Instagram almost exclusively on my computer. The overwhelming amount of content on social media can stifle your creativity. Also, we improve by doing, not by watching.

I've taken up ceramics and other hands-on activities. Stepping away from the iPad and computer is really refreshing.

Take notes on ideas, names, poems, thoughts, podcasts, and more in a notebook or sketchbook, and carry it with you everywhere. This is the source of your inspiration.

If I had to highlight one key lesson I've learned, it would be “more doing, less thinking.” This doesn’t mean I’ve become careless; rather, when I feel motivated to do something, I push myself to take action. I also try not to set high expectations for the outcome.

I’m looking forward to everything that’s coming my way and just keeping working no matter what. If it’s uncomfortable, it means there will be change, and that’s a good thing, even if it feels less like it in the first place.