Mind monkeys are the naughty inner critics that can creep up on you when you are least expecting. But once they are recognized and tamed, we can begin to experience more joy and creativity in our painting.
This means you have to tune in and be receptive. Choose to be a listener. Practice being an observer. What happens while you create? When you begin to hear that voice of assessment (which can often be a bit harsh or picky), stop. Instead:Take a walk.
In fact, while we walk, we can still be working on our artwork in that wonderful subconscious or unconscious mind.
Personify and externalize the Inner Critic through art you could make a picture of what your Inner Critic looks like, using drawing, painting, or a collage image.
Practice acceptance, non-judgment, and self-compassion in the art process– you can use these concepts, to write down examples of thoughts that you want to practice during art. For example, “I can enjoy art without it being perfect. Everyone can be creative. Whatever I put on the page is good enough. Have fun and don’t worry about the final product.
When we have cultivated a kind and compassionate inner voice, then we don’t have to worry so much about being a failure because we can trust we won’t attack ourselves in the process.
