Getting Art done without Deadlines

Stay motivated in your art practice without deadlines or pressure. Get 5 easy tips for building creative momentum, plus a free inspiration guide

Hey there, artist friends! 👋

Today I want to dive into a topic that sneaks up on every creative person at some point — staying motivated when there’s no deadline and no one breathing down your neck.
Sounds dreamy, right? Until your brain decides scrolling TikTok or re-organizing your fridge magnets is a better idea than picking up a pencil. 🙃

The truth is, deadlines create urgency — and without them, motivation can feel slippery.
So how do you keep showing up for your art when it’s only for you?

Here’s what’s helped me (and what I share with my students):

1. Create Fake Deadlines

Yep, you heard me — fake it ‘til you make it.

Set small, doable deadlines just for yourself.
Example:
👉 “I’m going to finish this sketch by Sunday night.”

Bonus tip: Tell someone else about it for a little gentle accountability. (And maybe ask them to roast you if you don't follow through. 😂)

2. Make It About Curiosity, Not Obligation

Forget perfection. Forget "being productive."

Instead, ask:
"I wonder what would happen if I tried this?"

Make it playful. Make it messy. Pretend you're a kid again experimenting with mud pies.
That’s where the real magic happens.

3. Set Teeny Tiny Goals

Big goals are overwhelming. Tiny goals feel doable.

Instead of “paint a masterpiece,” try:
🎨 Sketch for 10 minutes.
🎨 Practice just one ear, or one leaf, or one whisker.

Small wins stack up faster than you think.

4. Know Your "Why"

When no one else is pushing you, your why becomes your fuel.

Ask yourself:
👉 Why do I love making art?
👉 What do I want to feel when I create?

It doesn’t have to be deep or profound — it just has to matter to you.

5. Romanticize Your Art Time

Light a candle. Make a playlist. Put on your "I’m an artist" hoodie.
Set the scene like you’re starring in your own indie art film.

The more you make your creative time feel special, the more you’ll crave it.

Bonus! Grab Your Free Inspiration Guide

Some days, even with all the tips, motivation feels flat.

That’s why I made a little freebie for you

It’s packed with:

Quick motivation prompts
Tiny challenges
Pep talks
A creative mood tracker

GRAB IT HERE

Final Thoughts

Motivation without pressure isn't about being perfect.
It’s about building a gentle, trusting relationship with yourself — showing up, even when it’s messy.

Tiny steps = huge creative momentum.
And you, my friend, are more than capable.

Until next time, keep creating — and remember:
If you love making art, you’re an artist. Don’t wait for permission to own that. 🎨✨

Kerri xx

Categories: : artist, inspiration, motivation