I was actually inspired to start learning watercolors because of a video I watched on YouTube. The way the paint flowed and the colors blended was almost magical. As soon as I saw that video, I knew I wanted to learn more.
I’m Jenna Rainey.
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I’m an artist, self-taught designer, and multi-faceted creative entrepreneur who is hell-bent on teaching everyone how to find their inner creative voice.
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11/03/2023
The fear of judgment can be paralyzing.
It can hinder our growth, stifle our creativity, and deter us from pursuing our dreams. But if we’re constantly worried about what others think of us, we’ll find ourselves living someone else’s life instead of our own . Embracing authentic self-expression is the key to breaking free. Here are some tips and strategies to help you overcome the fear of judgment and live your most genuine life.
Tips for Overcoming the Fear of Judgment
Understand the Source of Fear
Evolutionary Perspective : Humans, as social beings, evolved with an innate desire to fit in with the tribe. This was essential for our survival. Well, we haven’t completely outgrown that genetic tendency and in the modern world, this translates to a fear of rejection or ostracization.
Personal Experiences : Past negative experiences, especially during formative years, can shape our fear of judgment. Maybe we experienced rejection in art class from a teacher, or our first love dumping us. Recognizing these experiences can help in addressing the root of the fear.
Practice Self-awareness
Keep a journal (the ones I use are listed in my Amazon shop!) and note down instances when you felt judged or when you held back due to fear. Over time, patterns will emerge, and you can address specific triggers. We do this a LOT in my course The Art Within and I provide lots of journal prompts for your “Style Journal”.
Surround Yourself with Positive Influences
Cultivate relationships with individuals who encourage authenticity. Avoid naysayers or excessively critical people. Ain’t nobody got time for that! If it’s a family member who is judgey with you, boundaries! Seek out communities and groups that celebrate individuality.
Acknowledge Your Unique Worth
Understand that your value isn’t determined by others’ opinions. Each of us has a unique blend of experiences, talents, and perspectives that make us irreplaceable. Solely seeking approval and attention from others is taking your power away and giving it to others. Prioritize self-acceptance first, the rest is a bonus!
Challenge Negative Thoughts
When you catch yourself thinking, “What will they think if I do this?”, challenge that thought. Ask yourself, “ What do I think? ” or “ Is this true to who I am? “
Limit Social Media Consumption
The constant barrage of curated perfection on social media can definitely exacerbate the fear of judgment. Take regular breaks, and remember that what’s often being posted is often a highlight reel, not the full story.
Seek External Validation Less
The more you rely on external validation, the more you become enslaved to it. Instead, focus on internal validation. Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, and focus on personal growth.
Practice Exposure
The more you face your fears, the less power they hold. Start with small acts of authenticity and gradually push your boundaries. Want a small place to start practicing this? Try calling a friend when you feel the impulse, instead of ignoring the urge and going weeks without connecting.
Embrace Vulnerability
Understand that vulnerability is strength. When we open ourselves up and show our genuine selves, we forge deeper connections and inspire others to do the same.
Remember Everyone is Preoccupied
Most people are too concerned with their own lives to spend too much time judging yours. Even if they do, it’s a fleeting thought in the grand scheme of things.
In the end, living an authentic life requires courage . It’s about accepting ourselves, flaws and all, and understanding that our uniqueness is our strength. By continually challenging the fear of judgment and embracing who we truly are, we not only find inner peace but inspire those around us to do the same.
Stephanie Law
If you aren’t familiar with the artwork of Stephanie Law, you definitely have to check it out. She is amazing! That is why I was SO excited when I saw her post that she is going to be starting to add more how-to videos to her YouTube channel. I would kill to be able to achieve some of the effects that she gets in her paintings. She only has a few videos up right now, but she is going to be adding a ton more in the future. I am so excited to see where her channel goes from here! I hope you’ll follow along, too:
- YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCyJr2wpUpvwtOw52GRTaAw
- Instagram Account: https://www.instagram.com/spmlaw/
- Website: http://www.shadowscapes.com/
The Mind Of Watercolor
This is far and away my favorite watercolor channel on YouTube at the present moment. It is run by Steve Mitchell and provides some of the most helpful watercolor tips and tutorials that I have had the pleasure of watching. I love how he breaks everything down into really easy/logical steps.
Most importantly, however, I also love his philosophy on working with watercolors. His channel name comes from the fact that watercolors sometimes have a mind of their own. Instead of fighting against the natural way that watercolors work, he shows how to work with them, allowing them to do their own thing so that they can add a bit of their magic to your paintings.
I’m posting a two-part tutorial that he did on painting a landscape so that you can see what I mean. Personally, I find the way that he explains everything and shows how to use the natural tendencies of watercolors to your advantage really inspiring.
- YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCv6GKopxZztw6EqG6OoIGCQ
- Instagram Profile:https://www.instagram.com/mindofwatercolor/
Kelly Eddington
Although Kelly Eddington’s YouTube channel has been around for quite awhile, she just recently started uploading regularly to it. Her channel combines instructional painting videos geared toward beginners with inspiring videos showing her paint some amazing watercolors from start to finish. Not only is she an excellent artist, but her videos are really well made and provide a ton of information. Here’s more info about her channel and website, along with a sample video so you can see what she’s all about:
- YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/pupedd
- Website:http://kellyeddington.com/
