PSA: No Critics At The Art Jam!
I stopped inviting my inner critic to my creative practice. Here’s why:
Many of my talented, artistic friends struggle with self-confidence. It’s said that we’re our own worst critics, and I don’t know a single artist who doesn’t feel that truth deeply.
Here’s the thing: if creativity is the gas, the inner critic is the brakes. And pressing both at once? Not good for your car—or your creative flow.
Maybe this sounds familiar: you’re in the zone, making something joyfully, then step away for a moment. When you return, the judgment kicks in. Suddenly, you're second-guessing everything. That inner critic has shown up uninvited, and your creativity disappears.
I first came across this idea in The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron. It helped me realize that my inner critic is far harsher with me than with anyone else—and that’s not okay. I don’t deserve that treatment, and you don’t either.
“But how will I improve if I don’t critique my work?”
Good question! I’m not saying to silence your inner critic forever—just don’t let it join your creative process. Save the critique for after the work is done. The real growth happens during the doing, and it’s hard to show up fully when you’re under constant scrutiny.
No Critics at the Art Jam
Look, I’m not saying we hate her, but harsh critics aren’t the best party guests. Their tastes are particular, they resist change, and they’re so opinionated.
So, what do you do when your inner critic crashes the party? Try this:
🎨 Start an art critic journal.
If your inner critic shows up uninvited, jot down their complaints in a dedicated journal. Let them have their say—later. Once your piece is finished, you can come back to those notes and decide if any of their feedback is useful. But remember: your inner critic doesn’t get to make the next move. You do.
🌱 Remember why you make art.
Is art really about being the best? If that’s your goal, then sure—your critic might play a bigger role. But if your goal is to have fun, express yourself, or simply maintain a creative routine, your inner critic doesn’t need a podium. In fact, they might be better off in the balcony.
Art doesn’t have to be “good.” It doesn’t need to be flawless or even pretty. Art can just be. And things are allowed to just be, without a critic’s commentary.
Are you an artist? If so, how is your relationship with your inner critic? Let me know your thoughts!
