This is a bit personal, but I feel that there are many people, artists and others alike, that could use some inspiration from time to time. In a world where stress is a common condition, from worry about meeting the cost of bills to handling one's jobs and relationships, life can be, at the very least, a challenge. I for one, go through a plethora of emotions on a never-ending daily basis. Sometimes I'm so consumed with preparing for a show or answering emails or making an income, etc. that I forget to get some "me" time in the mix.

"Me" time could be anything from getting my hair done to sitting down to paint or just hanging out with some of my friends. It's for me and my personal emotional and mental wellbeing alone. And I find that doing that is vitally important to maintaining my stability and enthusiasm about life in general.  That seems like a simple thing to do but honestly, sometimes there's just so much going on that there really is no time at all for that precious "me" time. 

The past few weeks have been a perfect example. I've been preparing for a solo exhibition, which means going through my paintings to select what to hang, ensuring each one is properly finished and framed, packing them up, drawing up a price list for the gallery, delivery and installation, etc. It's an enormous undertaking. In addition to that are the normal, daily demands. The result is that I haven't had a lot of time to paint or anything for that matter. The stress mounts, the pressure is on.

So how do I personally maintain my stability, and calm enthusiasm? I have to laugh, that's the first thing. I try not to get too serious about anything or any situation. I try to "keep it light" as the saying goes. And I try to laugh at myself when I do something thoroughly stupid or awkward. Lord knows that scenario happens all too often.

Also, I have a dog who is the sweetest and "bestest" friend a girl can have. He keeps me smiling with his antics and sweet nature. 

Finally, and possibly one of the best things I do to stay positive is to walk away from uncomfortable situations. I try to stay away from negative people. I try not to listen to "advice" that is, in actual fact, a nullification of me and my art. That's not always easy to do but boy does it do the trick!

Combine those three things and presto! I feel on top of the world and ready to push forward, filled with new enthusiasm for life and art.

So, the next time you feel yourself being pulled downward, try one or all of the above. Or better, come up with your own.