This certainly resonates with me. I used to love drawing/painting but I put so much unnecessary pressure on myself and often feel paralyzed by perfectionism which often left me giving up before even starting. I think a lot of people, like you said, want instant gratification, that quick dopamine fix and they're not willing to put in the work to obtain their desired goal.

I’m not painting because I’m watching this video and eating breakfast but i will get there pahaha

For me, boredom isn’t my motivator. I must feel alone- I need space. Quiet space, and feel inspired. Ideas come from my environment. When I feel pressured by family or obligations, it sucks up my creativity.

This is what I love about this side of KZfaq. So many intelligent and creative people 🥰

The real reason for most artists is PERFECTIONISM…it’s fatiguing and stalls you out. Not reaching perfection is disheartening and discouraging and turns what you love doing into daunting work..so instead you distract yourself with other “obligations” like zombie scrolling your phone. Striving for “excellence” is kinder while keeping in mind the “ten thousand hours rule to master something” which can help you forge ahead. Try making art fun and remember to recharge your creative energy often with images of inspiration..❤

As someone with diagnosed ADHD, these elements of attention and boredom feel very difficult indeed. It’s an incredible feat to un-addict myself from consuming content and become bored enough to create. Still on this mental health journey though…for now I personally chose to not medicate the ADHD and focus on treating anxiety and depression instead. Physically, I have chronic pain and am generally fatigued, so I can’t really look forward to seasonal bursts of energy as much. Still very much figuring out what I need. At the moment I know I am addicted to my phone, am avoiding boredom, and am feeling the struggle daily. But I won’t give up. Thank you for the helpful commentary on being intentional and kind to ourselves.

Wow, thank you so much! I've been trying to figure out why I never get anything I want to done, and now realize my youtube addiction is the reason!

This is what painting is for me, I'm a game designer and when I was in school I took a ton of traditional art classes and fell in love with painting. After school I dropped it for a while and just focused on my career but found myself needing an outlet, so I recently got back into painting. I was playing with the idea of making a youtube or trying to monetize the hobby but when I tried I felt like it was just ruining the purity of it. Now I'm just doing it strictly for me, just as a hobby, and it's better than ever. It feels so liberating to just create and not worry about the outcome, over plan everything, etc. It's great to just have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Hope someone else out there can get something out of this, just do the things that bring you lasting joy. It sounds so simple but it took me a while to come to this realization.

I was addicted to KZfaq during the Covid lockdown. I am still compelled to watch videos. I need to be painting or illustrating. Thanks for this video!

I started a painting and hate it. I haven't touched it since September. I started doing a paint by numbers instead and I'm actually enjoying myself. I forgot how to enjoy the process and I think this is actually helping. No pressure, just put paint on the matching number. Some of the paints dried so I have to mix them again and honestly, I'm excited to do so. It's weird. I used to draw so much because I was bored, but now I think I've just put way too much pressure on myself. Maybe I'm just burnt out. Thank you for the video and voicing your own struggles.

I walked in my studio this morning, and when I went to my laptop to put music on I saw you had posted a new video. So here I am sitting in my recliner, 8 feet from my easel, watching KZfaq videos. Now, time for music and painting.

Today, I stumbled upon your channel for the first time; The topic hit squarely on target. Thank you for addressing what I imagine is the elephant in the room, for so many of us, these days. Not only are your words golden, your artistic skills are incredible. You’ve gained a new subscriber.

Setting yourself for boredom is great! I read, meditate after reading, pray. I miss painting - stopped a while ago..

totally agree im so busy looking up things to paint and get hooked into all the cool pictures to paint i end up not painting any

What an excellent video. I actually shed a tear while watching. It describes me to a T - on a quest for that 'hit' and doom-scrolling - what a spot-on description! I never used to be like this. I've always been pretty good at art and very creative. I was always up to something! I really got into painting after getting a W&N Cotman's watercolour pan set, some gouache paints, 2 brushes and an A2 painting pad for a birthday many years ago, long before internet was in every home, and I did some of the best work I have ever done using only these materials, especially when I didn't have a 'real' job and had time on my hands. As years passed, I gathered more and more art materials while still enjoying the creative process. For the past 10 years I have been working full-time in a factory, which pays the bills and affords me more art stuff. But I have less time and energy to create. I still managed to fit it in and enjoyed the process. It's the past 3 years that have really knocked me for six. I now have quite literally a room full of art & craft supplies, many unused & unopened - it's like a shop! All the art stuff I ever wanted and more! Yet I spend my time online looking for something (?), in and out of rabbit holes, cat videos, doom-scrolling, cat videos, checking out new products, cat videos, watching other people create - people like yourself! I do draw and paint in between but it's getting less and less - seems such a hassle and the challenge & enjoyment seem to be missing. While at work I can finish a painting 'in my head'... I go thru a process in my mind and decide Yes! I'll do that when I get home today. This decision makes me feel better, less guilty, less of a failure. But when I get home, the first chance I get I'm back on my pc, checking emails (my initial excuse to log on) and that's me off on my online journey again. My great intentions of making a start to that painting I had 'completed' in my head that day fades as I realise that, in reality, it seems a lot harder & much more hassle than I imagined. So I rarely even start. I actually talk out loud to myself about it, give myself a telling off each night before bed coz I know I just wasted precious time and yet another chance to create! It's really getting me down. It's like I'm caught in a spiral of guilt and self-criticism coz I know it's my own fault! Obviously the cov-flu thing and recent world events are really getting to me too. I often wonder what's the point? Thank goodness for cat videos. Anyway, that's enough of my worries. Thank you so much Chelsea - for opening my eyes and making me think hard - and for 'listening'!

I'm just returning to drawing, oil & watercolor painting, learning and making music (flute), and making my own instruments once again, after 10 years. And rebuilding a whole new home and life. Social media is addictive (meaning that it confuses my senses) and has been robbing me of a life full of enthusiasm and love. This means a lot. Blessings, peace.☮️

What a beautiful message, Chelsea! This is 100% truth! As a writer and YT influencer, this clearly resonates with me. Two years ago, I picked up my paintbrush after a fifteen-year absence. At this point, my life has completely changed. I have always lived the inner journey. Now it's much more enriching. I know I am coming full circle. Thank you so much for your wisdom, wishing you many blessings!

This is me. Sitting looking at my art table then picking up my iPad and disappearing. Thank you

I get this feeling so often. seeing people produce things while I sit, “like” and which I was inspired to do the same. it’s crazy to see how being on your phone steals inspiration, rather than provide it. thank you for your perspective. ❤

Somewhere I lost me I lost the ability to draw my love for life I don't know how to find her . But on a lighter note love your painting it's fabulous

I recall maybe 55 years ago reading something by Krishnamurti in which he stressed the value of staying with your boredom; just be bored and see where it leads, he wrote.

You hit it exactly! Watching someone else is much easier than doing it ourselves. I have been in boarding mode for a while. Hoping getting out in nature will reconnect me to the creative self. Thanks!

This really hit home. I work full time and always feel like I don’t have enough time to paint - but then I get my usage report and I am spending 3 - 5 hours on my devices. I know it’s a time and energy suck… of course it also sucks your creativity away

I’ve been letting my watercolors collect dust over these past few weeks, and this inspired me to draw & paint tomorrow🫶🏽

Thank you, I need the help. Need to return home, set up and plan to start painting daily. Landscape and portraiture are my focus. In northern latitude I miss light, but grown so I love with light. Keeping light therefore gorgeous shadows. Thank you.

I stopped painting 3 years ago. Not through boredom but anxiety from the myriad challenges painting threw at me. The frustration over took me and I stopped. I play and teach drums, which I find challenging but not frustrating or angst ridden. Playing drums does, for me, far more than painting ever did.

You just described me. It makes my eyes sting with tears. I love watercolor. I have an art room but everything is sucking me away from what I love.

Painting was my creative outlet in my childhood and teenage years. Then I went to design school, and had to do a ton of drawing and painting assignments. Now I'm working as a creative director. It's been years since I painted with paints on a canvas. After I get home from work, I simply don't want to do anything related to colors and forms and compositions. It just feels like work; not fun anymore. 🤷‍♀️

My god. Your video describes me completely, Chelsea. And yes- I’ve known it. But it helps so much in hearing another artist saying this out loud. This is the first I’ve seen one of your videos! I just now subscribed…❤

You are BY FAR one of the BEST. Im so glad I found your channel eventhough Im more into expressionism, emotionism, impressionism, scifi, realism, experimentalism.

This was very helpful. Painting is my job as well and it is my financial support. It is critical that I paint every day. I wake up every morning with the plan to have that cup of coffee and watch one gardening KZfaq show I enjoy , then read my Bible followed by getting to work with paint. However lately I find that I watch that first show and then something else and then play some games Watch some tv and so the day goes and all if a sudden it’s 4 PM. Then I start painting. I cannot afford this kind of behavior. I must figure out how to break this pattern. I find that I have to listen to audio books because now when I try to read a literal book - or a kindle book- my old favorites cannot hold my attention any longer. I keep thinking I just can’t find a really good book but I honestly don’t think that is the real problem. Again thank you for your insight.

Thank you for this video. It really made me stop and consider the amount of time I spend on social media rather than on creative work.

I have all my paints, etc. from years ago…need this advice to get me back to painting, my true love!

This is so true! We're so afraid to get bored, or to miss something on the internet (FOMO). When I went to bed I was restless and couldn't sleep. Every day I felt bad and "tired" from life itself, like everything was grey, but I didn't really notice it because it was normal for me. Until I deleted instagram from my phone. I slept better at night and woke up refreshed in the morning. I no longer scroll pointlessly through my cell phone when I'm bored, but grab a book, draw something in my sketchbook or write something. I clean up, I play with the dog. Life is colorful again and I notice so many little things in everyday life. yesterday I painted for the first time in months and it felt so good. I can't wait to continue painting tonight.

This is so where I am. Thank you. I'm heading off to be bored.

Thanks for sharing so authentically. The world becomes better with authenticity. Bless you❤

Making me face what I already knew , except when you say it I feel encouraged and motivated, much appreciated

As a struggling beginner, I’m glad I chanced on your site today, and subscribed. Being able to see videos of the process of a painting from start to finish is very helpful for me. As a deaf person who suffers with Complex PTSD, I appreciate your help.

Chelsea this book changed my life in 2022 and it is probably because of it that I got out of my comfort zone and applied for the mentorship and art program that has been changing my life even more. I needed to hear all of that today, thank you for this and for so much. I am looking forward to keep working with you and watching you shine and help us shine with all your wisdom and infinite generosity ❤ you are one of a kind ❤

Thank you for a very thought-provoking video (and I loved watching the portrait come alive with such apparent ease)

Picasso broke that code with his simple but powerful (once one fully understand it) quote: “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up”. Imagine being in Pablo's shoes, being able to paint like he did at age of 14, getting all that recognition for your mastery, being exposed on every possible way, but still being able to paint like he did 6, 7 decades later. "The problem is how to remain an artist once he grow up."

I completely agree with you! I am constantly switching between painting and embroidery and find it helps me to always feel inspired to create.

Thank you Chelsea for covering this subject. I totally agree, and this isn't just for artists. It's permeating our whole society, and especially our younger generation. It's really a social media problem, as well. It's really sad to see a group of kids walking together, but they don't talk to each other, they are all on their phones! Is that socializing? I don't think so. This is an important point, and many more should hear it and pay attention to something other than the phone! Be creative, read a book, do something outdoors, have a real conversation!! There is life beyond screens, lol!

Great video. I suffer more from distraction and discouragement than burnout. I’m a very competitive person and when I’m not the best I can be I get discouraged. I also get distracted by trying to be the best by watching too many tutorials, tips, and lessons. I consume all this info and rarely every remember it all to put it into practice. This year I’m going to try to produce more than I consume. No more wasting time being distracted or discouraged. I’m going to refine my skills and do my best to be my best.

Thank you for sharing this important reminder. I lost my mojo this year and stopped painting. I needed to change this dopamine hit and go back to painting again. Happy New Creative Year! 🎉

I have been doing this. Wow!! I don't just want to be busy. I want to be directed from an inner-place.

Excellent, Chelsea. So important to just slow down and learn to be in the moment without stimulation. Great message. Cheers from the Netherlands.

THAT was extremely useful - it's precisely why I've not painted anything so far this year, two weeks in: I got distracted by so many things - thanks to you, I've just done my first pen and ink sketch of 2023, and that will become a painting when I've killed off the various 'comforting' things that have obsessed me and kept me away from my paint and brushes. It may be simple when you think about it - but I couldn't work out what was wrong at all, and have been getting very frustrated - knowing there was a problem there, but not knowing what it was.

Brilliant - both your painting and insights. Thank you!

I painted non stop for the last 5 years… stopped in June. I watch so many videos of others painting while I tell myself I’ll get back to it. I don’t know what my glitch is… I crave it but I’ve been depressed with empty nest syndrome and having kids that are estranged from me. It consumes me and yet I know painting makes me happy… maybe I’m feeling undeserving of some of my own happiness… I don’t know. I appreciate this video and insight very much.

I feel as though I was meant to see this today...you took me on a journey this morning of thought and exploration. The opportunity for boredom has been lost and something that in the past has lead me to creativity. ❤

This was absolutely amazing, and exactly what I needed to get over this current hump. I have open commissions, I'm in show prep for 2 upcoming exhibitions...and I still have been almost avoiding painting these past few weeks...I thank you so much for your openness and vulnerability, for giving me language and ideas I could not find. I had to subscribe after this video.

As fellow artist I feel so understood through this video... Thank you for inciting inspiration within me to get that spark of drawing and sketching back.

Very positive in this dark depressing time of year. Thanks so much

I loved watching how you brought her to life with color and your brush strokes. Beautiful!

Thanks for sharing advices! That really helped. Btw, I love your paintings so much. They are always stunning and gorgeous!

Painting is showing your inside beauty.❤😇

Brilliant video. Thanks for posting. I needed this.

I loved watching that, minimal brush stokes, yet, so much detail. :)

Sounds like me! It’s a compulsion that never fills you up.

Thank you for this video , I totally agree it's happened to me as well, I started painting back in 1987 in highschool and decided that's what I wanted to do with my life but I have had this artistic block for the longest now and no matter how I try I can't get that passion back .

I am so glad you got into this issue and that I found it. Just hearing what you have to say has been very healing and suddenly I got up off my ass to do things... like cleaning.

Great advice. Love your loose style. I will keep practicing. Thank you 🙏

Thank you so much for this. I really needed this door to open for my understanding.

This definitely hits home for me. Thank you.

Just what I needed to hear! Thank you.

Glad I found this informative video. I completely agree, with needing to be bored. And the addictive nature of the technology we all have embraced! Happy New Year to you as well, and thanks!

I really needed this. Thank you so much!!

Thanks for sharing the great insights! Always appreciated and helpful.

Right message at the right moment. Thank you for sharing; loved watching your painting. The anecdotes about cell phones and tech gadgets numbing and snatching people's attention was spot on. Kudos kiddo.

First time I’ve seen your video and just wanted to deeply thank you for such a powerful and important message for anyone and everyone! 💐So much gratitude for you! 🙏❤️🤗

Thank you for this reminder. You hit it! Boredom can turn into realization.....

Glad to have caught your video. I can relate totally with what you describe.

That is true, lot of distractions like social media taking our time. Also evolving from perfection to impression style gives hope to get into painting. thanks 👍

Beautiful painting; wonderful advice. Thanks!

This answered so many questions. Thank you. The most difficult part right now is that I'm in art/ animation school and I'm feeling this way now. I'm bored and constantly re-thinking my life over. I have no choice but to keep drawing, but instead of scrolling half the day away I need to go out and play pool more and keep going to jiu jitsu classes. I usually feel better when I'm done these things. I just didn't know why and didn't see the cycle I was in.

Thank you for this. I never related why I have no desire to paint the last few years and I use to love it and was good at it. I had gotten an iPad and it became all I did. This makes so much sense!💗🇨🇦

Loved this video. Thank you for posting. ❤

Oh,I can relate to this so much. I've found myself switching back and forth from writing out my novel to painting to collage art,and back to Journaling. I'm currently doing collage images that pertain to certain scenes in my novel. Im also into my 91st journal book. The collage art and Journaling is helping me to get back into my writing. I just go back and forth as I battle with perfectionism and self doubt. Finally had to convince myself to not worry about what others may think,but to do this for me. Thank you for this video. God bless.

Really needed to hear this. Thank you!

Beautiful! Thank you for sharing.

I have finally come out the other side of a dark tunnel. I had to give up oils as I developed a serious allergy to solvents and even the mildest chemicals. Back to beautiful watercolour which has been a major challenge. Broken through, I am off to France alone to paint.

You are gifted in more ways than one! Thank you for this video. Keep on keeping on 🎨💕 creative people go thru these things 😊

This is me in a nutshell....I am ashamed to think of the time I have wasted by mindlessly scrolling through various sites. I say I'm going to get back to painting every day, and then waste time doing exactly what you talked about instead. I am bored many times and I need to stop filling that boredom with the internet or tv. And the quotation you read from Untamed just makes my heart sad for all the children coming along who will have to fight this battle of not letting the internet take over our minds. The description of the light going out of her son's eyes was heartbreaking and relatable. I am going to think of your video every day and make progress on getting back to painting. I really needed to hear you say this in such a clear way. I look forward to your videos every Saturday! Thank you so much, Chelsea!

Thank you for this, you put into words a problem that I was only hazely aware of. It's easy to forget the realizations I make when I'm doom scrolling. Thank you for reminding me.

I stumbled across this video at the perfect time. Thank you. 🙏🏼

This is something that truly spoke to me and I really needed to hear this! Thank you for sharing this video! It really has hit home! Xxxx

I have a difficult time with long brush handles. It amazes be when I see someone painting effortlessly with them. And agree. I feel like this message was meant for me. Thanks for sharing!

This is the kind of advice I need to hear. And the kind of painting technique I want to learn! Thank you. Liked and subscribed. I look forward to watching the rest of your videos.

This was really refreshing to find! It definitely had me reflecting on my own relationship with my technology and the push to create. I can definitely sense my own burnout, and I think by living present and letting myself get bored, I can curb it. Just subscribed!

Thought provoking topic. Thank you.

Thank you for the video, links, and planting the idea of being bored to inspire creativity. It'll be interesting to see what results from it

What a beautiful person you are and a beautiful artist. Thank you for sharing this...I needed to hear these words 💖

Thank you Chelsea I enjoyed hearing you this morning Pauline

Excellent. Thank you for sharing these thoughts and ideas. They are absolutely valid.

Brilliantly done and said ❤ thank you! Beautiful work. Just subscribed and clicked all notifications.

This is so so right, I've just started getting all my crafts equipment and I'm starting to learn something I've never done before, technology is sucking the life out off us, get your self a burner phone and bin the the not so smartphone.... Beautiful work❤🙏

You are somehow watching me at night. (And during the day.) Thank you for this, Chelsea ❤️🌹❤️

I love your creation , and your wisdom ! this was a wonderful discovery , i look forward for more ! Thank you !

What a great read, and topic! Thank you!