10 Lessons in 10 Years: Life & Creative Insights That Made Everything Easier

TIME TO SAY GOODBYE TO THIS PAST YEAR x10

It wasn’t just another year passing—it was the close of a whole decade. And I felt it. When that much time has gone by, I get antsy. I start questioning: Did I do anything meaningful? Where am I with that 5-year plan, the 10-year vision, the life map I keep revisiting?

The holidays came in a blur. Our tree went up late, the gift list was short, and celebrations were last-minute. Everything felt out of sync. I was dropping all the juggling balls until, finally, on January 1st, I stopped. The world seemed to slow down with me.

Sitting outside, watching our little one play in unseasonably warm Houston weather, it hit me: these quiet, simple moments are everything. I wasn’t the same woman I was one year ago, definitely not ten years ago. But what was I doing a decade back? I honestly couldn’t remember. So I did what I always do when I want to remember—I went digging through old photos.

TEN LIFE & ART LESSONS FROM THE LAST DECADE

1. Being an artist means running your own business.

The reality that you're the artist, marketing team, customer service, and IT department - this is crucial knowledge many art students never learn. That somehow, in the chaos, you also have to make time for creative art.

2. Quality over quantity in all things.

This also applies to friendships, materials, work, and life choices - it is also relevant for artists making intentional choices.

3. Buy art from artists when they're starting.

Purchasing from young artists supports the art community and teaches art valuation from an insider's perspective. The art will never be this affordable again, especially if you buy from art students in their first exhibits.

4. Never assume an opportunity isn't for you due to a lack of experience.

This courage-building lesson about entering exhibits (or jobs) and pushing past intimidation is vital for artistic growth.

5. Failure is part of the learning road - failure means you tried. 

The essential mindset for creative risk-taking and resilience. If you don’t fail then you didn’t try.

6. Document life - it's shorter than we think.

As an artist with a camera, this captures both your artistic practice and life moments.

7. Explore your backyard as a travel destination.

Perfect for exploring life, finding inspiration, and having adventures locally. Meaning you are living.

8. Follow through on what you set your mind to do.

Discipline and commitment are essential for both artistic practice and life goals.

9. Don't compare your path to others - do it your way.

Fundamental for maintaining an authentic artistic voice and personal growth. You can drive yourself crazy if you try to measure yourself against someone else’s life.

10. There's never a "right" time - just go.

There is never a “right” time or age to go somewhere. Go! I have learned that there is no magical, perfect time formula. This lesson applies to travel, moving to another state or country, going back to school, starting a business, or starting a family.