Embrace the Process, Not the Product

The belief that one cannot do something, like art or math, often stems from early judgments placed by adults, which enforce a rigid mindset about right and wrong. By the age of five or six, many individuals internalize these judgments, stifling their creativity and exploration. Drawing is highlighted as a crucial way for children to develop flexibility and adaptability; when this creative outlet is curtailed, it leads to a belief that they lack the ability. To counter this, it is suggested to detach the value of a 'good' drawing from the act of drawing itself, reframing it as a bodily experience rather than a product. A practical exercise is proposed: drawing an object from life for three minutes without looking at the paper encourages participants to focus on the process and their physical engagement, while also embracing imperfections. This shift in perspective can lead to newfound experiences and insights in the creative journey.