The Creative Clock: Mastering Time Management for Artist

Welcome, fellow creative souls, to a blog post that's less about chasing deadlines and more about finding a harmonious rhythm between your artistic genius and the ticking of the clock. We get it – time management might sound like a buzzkill, but fear not! This isn't about turning you into a productivity robot; it's about unleashing your creative beast without losing track of time.

Most of us still have 9-5 jobs with little or nothing to do with our art. We're working to pay the bills and, if we're lucky, save a little in hopes that one day we can create art full-time, on our own terms. Whether or not art is your full-time career or something you just have passion for, finding the time to create is always challenging. As I sit here writing, my Huion graphics display next to me, I wonder why I'm not doing color on my latest swamp monster creation, but this post won’t write itself. 

In this journey through time and creativity, we're diving into the nitty-gritty, navigating the artistic landscape with the finesse of a squirrel crossing a tightrope. So, grab your favorite sketchbook, settle into your chair, and take some notes from "The Creative Clock: Mastering Time Management for Artistic Success." Because, let's face it, your masterpieces deserve more than a fleeting moment of brilliance – they deserve a spotlight on the grand stage of your time.

Clock Tower Painting

Prioritization

The art of prioritization in the artist's workflow is like conducting a symphony – it's about orchestrating the chaos of creative ideas into a harmonious masterpiece. Here's a  breakdown of what we.'

1. **Distinguishing Urgent vs. Important:**

   - Imagine your artistic ideas as part of the big picture. Some demand immediate attention (urgent),  like that commission that is due by the end of the week, and while others might not scream for the spotlight, like that painting you really want to finish to hang up in your office, it's still important, but it can wait. Prioritization is about identifying these distinctions.

2. **Tackling the Creative Chaos:**

   - In the artist's mind, creativity often resembles a bustling carnival – a riot of colors, sounds, and ideas. Prioritization is the skill of taming this creative chaos. It's deciding which ideas come first and which will give your investment the most return. Not just thinking monetarily but also which ideas will provide you with the progress outcome you're striving for over the long term.

3. **Eisenhower Matrix as Your Creative GPS:**

   - The Eisenhower Matrix is like a treasure map for artists. It divides tasks into four quadrants – urgent and important, important but not urgent, urgent but not necessary, and neither urgent nor essential. Artists can use this matrix to navigate the labyrinth of tasks and determine where to focus their creative energies.

4. **Resisting the Shiny Object Syndrome:**

   - Artists, much like magpies, are drawn to shiny objects – new ideas, techniques, or projects. Prioritization is the discipline of staying true to the task at hand, resisting the allure of every shiny inspiration that flutters by, and finishing what was started. Take a look at the most successful artist you admire. Chances are, you're looking at finished pieces, not a gallery of partials.

5. **Balancing Short-Term Wins with Long-Term Goals:**

   - Prioritization involves a delicate dance between instant gratification and long-term aspirations. It's about finding a balance – indulging in the joy of completing quick, satisfying projects while watching the grand masterpiece that represents your artistic legacy.

6. **Embracing the Unpredictable Nature of Creativity:**

   - Artists, by nature, are explorers of the unknown. Prioritization in the artist's workflow requires a willingness to adapt. It's about being flexible and recognizing that sometimes the best strokes of genius come from unexpected corners of the canvas. Sometimes, you have to create just because you have to. All artists need that burst of randomness.

7. **Understanding the Rhythm of Your Creativity:**

   - Prioritization is not a one-size-fits-all affair. It's about understanding your own creative rhythm – when your ideas flow like a tranquil river and when they surge like a tidal wave. Prioritize tasks based on your unique ebb and flow. I create better sketches, and I'm more creative in the morning. After my day job, I'm usually mentally spent, and it's an excellent time to lay down some inks and color.

Let's walk through the artistic process and how to start creating. Here's the breakdown

**The Spark of Genius:**

   - Picture this as the lightbulb moment. It's that "aha!" instant when your brain goes, "Hey, wouldn't it be cool if…?" Inspiration strikes, and you're off to the races. It usually comes out of nowhere, so I carry a small sketchbook to write down random thoughts and ideas or do a quick sketch whenever that spark arises.

**The Scribble and Dabble Phase:**

   - Time to throw spaghetti at the wall and see what sticks. This is the part where your sketchbook becomes a chaotic playground. Scribble, doodle, and dabble—let your ideas run wild like sugar-fueled toddlers at a birthday party. No, seriously, have a sketchbook that includes even the worst ideas and sketches. I call them my shit books. 

** The Grand Ambush of Self-Doubt:**

- Right when you thought you were invincible, self-doubt comes crashing the party. Suddenly, your masterpiece looks more like a muddled mess, and you question every artistic choice you've ever made. It's the imposter syndrome at its finest and can hold you back from completing your project. Don't let it.

 **The Abyss of Revision:**

   - Congratulations, you've plunged into the abyss of revision. It's like trying to edit a novel while riding a rollercoaster. Tweak this, adjust that, a dash of color here, a touch of shading there. You're in the maze, and the exit sign is written in abstract brushstrokes.

**The "Is It Done Yet?" Stage**

   - The eternal dance of wondering if your creation is ready to face the world. It's like waiting for a cake to bake—you check, and it's not quite there. You check again; maybe it needs a bit more time. Cue the inner debate: "Is it done, or am I just impatient?"  Don't strive for perfection. You'll constantly push to improve; it's just part of the process.

** The Victory Lap (or Walk of Shame):**

   - Ta-da! The finished piece emerges like a butterfly from a chrysalis. Cue the triumphant music... or the not-so-triumphant realization that you'll do better next time. Either way, it's a journey worth taking. The process is what you have to fall in love with.

 Ultimately, the artistic process is a bit like a rollercoaster ride through a surreal theme park. There are thrilling highs, challenging loops, and occasional moments when you question your life choices. But hey, that's what makes the journey uniquely yours. Keep creating. Love what you do.

Time Blocking

Time blocking as an artist is like giving your creative chaos a roadmap – it's about scheduling your day into chunks of focused, uninterrupted time. Here's a  guide on how to use time blocking without feeling like you're suffocating your artistic spirit:

1. **Identify Your Most Productive Hours:**

   - Are you a morning maestro or a nocturnal virtuoso? Identify when your creative juices flow best. Time blocks your most productive hours for your high-energy, imaginative tasks. Before my 9-5 is usually my best time for new ideas, and after work is my inks and color. Things flow better for me that way.

2. **Break Down Your Artistic Process:**

   - Divide your artistic process into specific tasks: sketching, drafting, coloring, revising, etc. Assign each task to a designated time block. It's like breaking down a complex painting into individual brushstrokes. 

3. **Guard Your "Creative Sanctuary" Time:**

   - Designate certain blocks as your "creative sanctuary" time. These are sacred periods when you shut out distractions, turn off notifications, and immerse yourself fully in your craft. Treat interruptions during this time like a gallery owner interrupting Picasso mid-stroke – not cool.

 4. **Mindful Breaks Between Blocks:**

   - Schedule short breaks between time blocks. It's not about scrolling through endless social media feeds but about stretching, grabbing fresh air, or doing a quick doodle. Think of it as an intermission in the play that is your artistic day. Your body will thank you later.

5. **Flexibility Is Key:**

   - Life happens, and art is a fickle muse. Be flexible. If you are in a flow, ride the wave a bit longer. Adjust the next time block if a task takes longer than expected. Find the balance.

6. **Diversify Your Blocks:**

   - Don't overindulge in one aspect of your craft. Spread the love across different creative facets. A block for sketching, a block for refining, a block for experimenting – variety keeps your artistic soul nourished.

7. **Include Admin and Self-Care Blocks:**

   - Time block is not just for artistic endeavors but also for the necessary administrative tasks. Budget time for emails, social media, and other less glamorous but essential aspects of the artist's life. Also, don't forget to allocate a block for self-care – your mental palette needs replenishing, too. I find regular walks through nature are good for your soul and help reset your mind.

8. **Review and Adjust Regularly:**

   - Review how your time blocks worked at the end of each week. Did you underestimate the time needed for a task? Overestimate? Adjust your schedule accordingly. It's like tuning your instrument – it might take a few tries to get it just right.

 Remember, time blocking is not about squeezing your creativity into rigid boxes. It's about creating a supportive structure that lets your art flourish.

My Current Setup

Procrastination and Creative Blocks

Ah, the eternal struggles of the creative spirit – procrastination and creative blocks. Fear not, fellow artist! Here are some suggestions to kick those roadblocks to the curb:

**1. **Embrace the Ugly Sketch:**

   - Sometimes, the blank canvas is the scariest part. Start with a purposefully ugly sketch or a few messy strokes. It breaks the ice, and the intimidating blank space suddenly doesn't seem so daunting. Warmup: start with some basic shapes, and at least you'll be practicing the basics.

**2. **Set Small, Achievable Goals:**

   - Instead of aiming to conquer the art world in one sitting, set small, achievable goals. Break your project into bite-sized tasks, making the creative mountain seem like a series of manageable hills.

 **3. **Dance with a Deadline:**

   - Procrastination often flourishes in the absence of a deadline. Create your own mini-deadlines, even if it's just for the day. The looming pressure can be a surprisingly effective kick in the palette.

 **4. **Change Your Scenery:**

   - Staring at the same four walls can stifle creativity. Change your surroundings. Take your sketchbook to a park, tablet to a coffee shop, or canvas to a different room. A change of scenery can breathe fresh life into your artistic perspective.

 **5. **Seek Inspiration Outside Your Niche:**

   - Creative blocks often occur when you're too immersed in your own genre. Seek inspiration outside your artistic bubble. Watch a documentary, read a book, or visit a museum. The eclectic influx might be just what your creative well needs.

 **6. **Start with the Fun Part:**

   - If you're stuck, start with the part that excites you the most. Whether it's the splashy colors or intricate details, diving into the enjoyable aspects can kickstart your enthusiasm and break the creative deadlock.

 **7. **Create a Ritual:**

   - Develop a pre-creative ritual. It could be as simple as lighting a scented candle, playing a specific song, or sketching a quick warmup. Your brain will associate these rituals with the creative process, making slipping into that artistic mindset easier.

 **8. **Connect with Fellow Creatives:**

   - Sometimes, it takes a chat with someone who gets it. Connect with fellow artists, whether in person or online. Share your struggles, get feedback, or revel in the shared understanding of the artistic journey.

 **9. **Accept Imperfection:**

   - Perfectionism can be a creativity killer. Embrace imperfections; they're the fingerprints of your artistic journey. Give yourself permission to create something flawed – often, the quirks make your work uniquely yours.

 **10. **Take Breaks Without Guilt:**

   - Rest is not the enemy. If you're hitting a wall, take a break without the guilt trip. Go for a walk, do something unrelated to art. Your brain continues to churn in the background, often solving creative puzzles while you're away.

 Remember, the creative journey is a rollercoaster, not a sprint. Embrace the ebbs and flows, and don't be too hard on yourself. You're not alone in this.

Peaceful Stream

Using Technology

Ah, the marriage of art and technology – a match made in creative heaven. Here's some ideas on how to leverage tech to boost your productivity as an artist:

 **1. Digital Sketching and Drawing Tools:**

   - Dive into the world of digital sketching and drawing tablets. They offer a vast array of brushes, layers, and undo buttons, making experimenting and refining your work a breeze. Brands like Wacom, Huion, and iPad Pro with Apple Pencil are popular. My iPad Pro is my go-to sketchbook, so I can create whenever and wherever.

**2. Project Management Apps:**

   - Wrangle your artistic projects with project management apps. Tools like Trello, ClickUp, or Todoist can help you organize your tasks, set deadlines, and even collaborate with others if you're working on a team project.

**3. Cloud Storage for Art Assets:**

   - Say goodbye to the fear of losing your precious artworks. Utilize cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive to securely store and access your art files from anywhere, on any device. Trust me, you need to back up your work. 

**4. Digital Painting Software:**

   - Explore digital painting software like Clip Studio Paint, Corel Painter, or Procreate. These programs offer tools, effects, and layers to elevate your digital painting game. Pro tip: Look for tutorials online to make the most of these powerful tools. There are so many free resources out there.

 **5. Social Media for Exposure:**

   - Turn your art into an online portfolio by leveraging social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, or ArtStation. Share your work, connect with other artists, and build a following. It's not just about exposure; it can also be a source of inspiration and collaboration.

**6. Time-Tracking Apps:**

   - Keep tabs on your productivity with time-tracking apps. RescueTime, Toggl, or Clockify can help you analyze how you're spending your time. It's not about micromanaging but gaining insights to make informed decisions about your workflow.

**7. Digital Art Communities:**

   - Join online art communities like DeviantArt, Behance, or Reddit's various art subreddits. These platforms offer critique, support, and a sense of belonging to a more prominent creative tribe. It's like having a virtual studio with artists from around the world.

**8. 3D Modeling Software:**

   - If you're venturing into the world of 3D art, explore software like Blender, ZBrush, or Nomad for the iPad Pro. These tools open up new dimensions (literally) for your artistic expression, allowing you to create intricate 3D models and scenes. 

**9. Digital Note-Taking Apps:**

   - Capture your spontaneous bursts of creativity with digital note-taking apps. Evernote, OneNote, or Nebo allow you to jot down ideas, sketch concepts, and organize your thoughts on the fly.

**10. Online Learning Platforms:**

   - Level up your skills with online learning platforms like Skillshare, Udemy, or YouTube. From mastering new art techniques to understanding the business side of being an artist, these platforms offer a treasure trove of courses to enhance your artistic journey.

Remember, technology is your creative ally, not a master. Choose the tools that resonate with your artistic style and workflow, and let them enhance, not overwhelm your creative process.

And there you have it, fellow creatives! We've navigated the wild terrain of artistry and time, armed with our brushes, pencils, and the elusive Creative Clock. Remember these tips, and let's throw some confetti in the air (metaphorically, please—cleaning confetti is no joke) as we wrap up this post and get back to creating.

 Time management isn't about stifling your artistic spirit; it's about turning your chaotic canvas into a well-choreographed dance. It's about finding the rhythm in the madness, the beat in the brushstrokes, and the perfect tempo for your creative symphony. Getting things done and being productive is the name of the game. All while staying as creative and authentic to our process as possible.

 As you venture forth into your artistic journey, armed with newfound insights, may your deadlines be gentle nudges rather than alarm bells. May your creative flow be as unstoppable as a caffeine-fueled paintbrush, and may the Creative Clock be your quirky companion in this epic journey.

 Here's to painting outside the lines, sketching beyond the margins, and creating a masterpiece out of the minutes. So, go forth and conquer the canvas because, in the grand gallery of time management, your masterpiece is the pièce de résistance! Keep creating.