Wondering how to find time to paint, write, draw, read, or do anything else? Read this!
Last week, I started reading a book by author Julia Cameron called The Right to Write. And I touched on a quote that inspired this post. She said:
“The “if I had time” lie is a convenient way to ignore the fact that novels require being written and that writing happens a sentence at a time. Sentences can happen in a moment. Enough stolen moments, enough stolen sentences, and a novel is born — without the luxury of time.”
Julia Cameron
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It was such a Eureka moment for me to read this quote in the book. It reminded me of how I actually managed to create art in the past vs. how I do it now. A few years ago, I was a student with a super tight schedule, exams, and having to go to uni back and forth and I still found time to create art, because I did whenever I had a time slot. Nowadays, I can barely do it, because I stopped approaching art as a hobby! Whenever I think of painting now, I think of setting up and planning. I also think of all the paint I need to mix and I slowly am discouraged because in my mind it’s a whole job and not a fun hobby.
However, not too long ago, I decided to start doing it exactly the way Julia said, and here’s how you can do it too.
7 ways to find time to paint (or do anything really!)
I know that finding time to paint could be really challenging if you have a tight schedule. But here are some tips to help you do it anyways:
1- Break it up
With a tight schedule, you surely don’t have large chunks of time to devote to painting. Instead, break it up into smaller increments. Even 15-30 minutes a day can add up over time and you will find yourself halfway through creating a body of work with no stress or feeling restricted.
2- Make use of weekends
This is funny! last week, I decided to paint on the weekend because my weekdays were too busy, then ended up having to work on that weekend as well. But since it’s not a general rule, I recommend you make use of your weekends to set aside a larger block of time for painting (or anything else you wish to do).
3- Multitask
I hate to say it, but it is the only way to get many things done at a little amount of time. However, I would say only look for opportunities to paint while waiting for laundry to finish or while dinner is cooking. Don’t ever paint with another task on hand that requires deep focus or dedication. You will do both painting and work mindlessly which isn’t healthy on the long run.
4- Prioritize
Assess your daily schedule and identify any activities that are not essential or can be delegated to someone else. Then use that time to paint instead. The art of delegation is literally a life saver!
5- Create a portable studio
This won’t work for artists who use certain mediums or who create bigger paintings like myself. But if your goal is to practice and sharpen your painting skills, consider creating a portable studio that you can take with you wherever you go, such as a small sketchbook and a set of watercolors. This way, you can paint whenever you have a spare moment.
Here’s a set that I like for this:
6- Incorporate painting into your routine
I do sketching and doodling as part of my journaling routine. So it is chill, fun and relaxing for me. Therefore, consider painting during a time when you’re already engaged in a relaxing activity, such as listening to music or watching television. This way, you can still enjoy your downtime while also being productive.
7- Schedule painting time
Doesn’t work for me personally, but we only learn through trial and error! Treat your painting time as you would any other important appointment or task. Block off a specific time in your schedule each week or day for painting, and stick to it.
Conclusion
It may take you time before you figure out how to find time to paint depending on your schedule and lifestyle but remember, it’s important to make time for the things you love, even if it’s just a few minutes a day. Painting can be a great way to reduce stress, express yourself, and find joy in the midst of a busy schedule.
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