How to spice up your art business with mindfulness

defines mindfulness.

1. Focus on the present

What is the first big benefit of being more mindful? Adoption. When you practice mindfulness, the , you can focus on the present and what you can do in the world right now. You don't dwell on the mistakes of the past or worry about the hypothetical consequences of the future. 

This leads you to accept what has happened in your life, good and bad. There is no condemnation of failure as you understand that it is an experience that has helped you grow and get you to where you are today, i.e. fulfill your dream of becoming an artist. You can then focus on simply creating art and running your business without too much worry. 

2. Pay more attention 

Benefit number two? You will become much better at paying attention and recognizing the needs of those in your life. Why? explains: “In our own work, we define mindfulness as “awareness of events and potentialities in the environment.”

In other words, awareness breeds awareness. When you are more knowledgeable, you can better understand what you need to give back to your family, friends, and clients who support your artistic career, and even what your business needs from you in order to be more successful. You better understand what your clients, gallery owners and collectors are looking for, and this opens up more opportunities for you to sell your work.

3. Less stress

Wouldn't it be nice to get rid of the heavy burden of running an art business? We think so. To start practicing mindfulness, Forbes article on recommends "sit quietly and focus on your breathing for two minutes." 

Focusing only on your breath helps you focus on the present and worry less about what you need to finish or about the show you want to go to. With , you will feel better mentally and physically, which can only help your ability to create.

4. Less fear

Being a full-time artist can be a daunting journey. But practicing mindfulness allows you to put into perspective what you fear. suggests taking a close look at what you're afraid of: "Looking at your obstacles, ask yourself what's real and what's the excuse for being afraid."

Then see what you can do to overcome those makeshift obstacles. explains, "Setting goals can be intimidating, but breaking them down into manageable chunks can actually be motivating." Having small goals is a great way to reduce fear and make tasks more manageable.

5. Become more intentional

Your newfound mindfulness will help you understand who you are in the present moment, which will make you more focused on the art you create.

adds: “You perceive what is happening to you right now with admiration and curiosity. You fall radically in love with life change because it inspires new ideas that feed your art." Creating with that kind of passion and intent will help you, which can help your art business in both the short and long term.

Do I need to say more?

It is clear that if you take time out of your busy day to practice mindfulness, it will not only help your art career, but your whole life. Taking on challenges, focusing on what you can control, and becoming more focused in your creativity is a much healthier lifestyle than obsessing over every little detail of the past and present. Plus, it will help you become much more productive and mindful of your dream of becoming a successful professional artist. So try it!

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