10 Life Principles for Everyday Success

 

Hey Beautiful Art Souls!

 

You know, life's this huge, beautiful mess that we're all trying to navigate. Sometimes it feels like we're just winging it, isn't it?

 

I'm excited to share something really special with you today -  ten simple principles that can help us get the most out of life. Whether you're an artist, a creative, or just someone trying to find success, these ideas are like golden rules to live by.

 

Now you might thinking, why bother with these principles? Well, they're about making life a bit smoother, knowing yourself better, and just generally feeling good about where you're headed. It's all about simple steps to build a happier, more fulfilling day-to-day.

 

 

 

 

 

1. Make the Best Use of Your Time

 

Alright, principle number one is all about time. We've all got the same 24 hours in a day, but it's what we do with them that counts. Making the best use of your time isn't about packing every second with stuff to do; it's about choosing what's really important to you and giving it your focus.

 

 

Why is this good to do?

 

Well, it helps you get closer to your goals. Whether that's finishing a big project, learning something new, or just making sure you have time to relax, managing your time well means you're making progress where it matters to you.

 

Here's how to make it work: Start by figuring out what's most important to you. This might be your art, your job, or spending time with family and friends. Then, plan your day around these things. Make sure you set aside dedicated time for your top priorities without overstuffing your schedule. Remember, quality over quantity.

 

And why does this matter? Ok, let see, when you focus on what's important, you tend to feel more satisfied and less stressed, isn't it?! Plus, you'll probably find you're getting more done and feeling better about your achievements. It's about making your time work for you, so you can enjoy the things that make you happy and reach your goals at the same time.

 

 

 

 

 

2. Know Your Strengths

 

For those of you still exploring to find out what you're really good at, think of this phase as an exciting exploration. Notice how you feel while doing each activity. Does time fly by? Does it make you happy? These clues can help you discover your strengths. Knowing your strengths isn't a finish line; it's a starting point.

 

Understanding what you're good at can lead you to your niche. For artists, this might mean recognizing whether their strength lies in vivid storytelling, unique color use, or innovative designs. 

 

Taking time to really understand what you're great at isn't just self-focus for the sake of it. It's about preparing yourself for real, enjoyable success because it plays to what you naturally excel at. Think of it like choosing something you're already good at; you're more likely to enjoy it and do well.

 

Here’s a simpler way to approach this: Start by asking yourself what activities make you so involved that you lose track of time. These are big hints about where your strengths lie. If drawing or sketching feels effortless and brings you joy, maybe your talent is in visual arts. 

 

Also, try new things once in a while.  Venturing into unknown territory can uncover hidden strengths you never knew you had. It's all about getting out of your comfort zone. Sometimes, you don't know you're great at something until you give it a go. So, if there's a hobby or skill you've been curious about, why not explore it? 

 

If you find that friends often turn to you for advice, indicating your strong skills in understanding and communicating with others, this could be a sign that you have the potential to mentor, teach, or coach others. Your ability to listen and offer guidance not only benefits your friends but could also be a valuable asset in a more formal role. Consider leveraging this strength by exploring opportunities to become a mentor, coach, or even a teacher in your field of expertise.

 

Also, don't shy away from asking people close to you what they think you're good at. They might notice things you don't. If a buddy tells you, "You always come up with great ideas on the spot," or "Your stories really make me think," that's valuable insight into your strengths.

 

Once you have a better idea of what your strengths are, think about how to use them more in your daily activities. If storytelling is your jam, why not try your hand at writing short stories or starting a podcast? 

 

If sketching and playing with colors on a canvas come easily to you, and you find real joy in it, you've got a special talent in the visual arts. This skill and passion you have could be a wonderful gift to others. Ever thought about sharing your love for painting and drawing through teaching or mentoring?

 

Understanding your strengths isn't about limiting yourself; it's about building on what you're naturally good at. This doesn't mean you can't explore and develop other areas, but focusing on your strengths can lead to more satisfaction and achievements.

 

It's totally fine to find out that your real talents might not match up with your current job or activities. A lot of folks figure out what they're truly great at and what they love doing much later on. Then, they bravely make changes to follow those strengths and passions.

 

 

 

3. Stay Away from Doubt and Fear

 

Fear and doubt? Yeah, they're tough, especially when you're trying to do something important to you. But guess what? All those folks we admire, the ones who've made a name for themselves, they've all been there too. They faced those same fears and pushed through. That's really something to think about.

 

 

So, what do we do about it?

 

Well, paying attention to the here and now helps a lot. When you feel scared or unsure, ask yourself, "Is this worry actually helping me?" If it's not, try to let it go. I know, it sounds easier than it is, but it's something you can get better at over time.

 

Affirmations are another great tool. These positive statements about yourself can boost your confidence. Start your day by reminding yourself, "I am capable, and I can tackle whatever comes my way." It sounds simple, but it can make a big difference in how you view yourself and your abilities.

 

Then, there's the power of having supportive people around you. Friends, family, or even an online community who believe in you  - can be a huge boost. They're the ones who remind you of your strengths when doubt and fear try to tell you otherwise.

 

Avoiding doubt and fear is really about not letting those feelings stop you from doing what you want or reaching your goals. Imagine you're on a path to where you want to be, and doubt and fear are like big rocks blocking your way. Moving those rocks - dealing with those feelings - lets you keep going.

 

 

Why is this important for success?

 

Well, when you don't let fear and doubt control your decisions, you open yourself up to more opportunities. You try new things, learn from them, and grow. That growth is a huge part of achieving success. It's like building a muscle; the more you use it, the stronger it gets. In this case, the muscle is your ability to face challenges without letting fear hold you back.

 

This principle is key because it touches on something deep inside us all: our belief in ourselves. When we believe we can face our fears and doubts, we're more likely to take the steps needed to achieve our dreams. And each time we do, we prove to ourselves that we can handle it, which makes us even stronger for the next challenge.

 

 

 

 

 

 

4. Feed Your Brain with Positive Thoughts

 

Feeding your brain with positive thoughts is a bit like choosing a healthy diet over junk food. Every day, we're bombarded with loads of information, some good and some not so good. Just like how eating too much junk food can harm your body, consuming negative content from TV shows, social media, or even from the people around us can really affect our minds.

 

Honestly, watching low-quality TV shows or scrolling through negative social media feeds might seem fun or engaging at the moment, but over time, they can make us feel pretty lousy. They often show us a world that's not real, making us wish for things that don't actually lead to happiness. And hanging out with people who are always down or critical can start to drag us down too, without us even noticing it.

 

So, how do we switch to a better "mental diet"? Start by being picky about what you watch, read, and who you spend your time with. Choose shows that make you think or feel inspired, follow social media accounts that are about positive vibes or learning new things, and spend time with people who uplift you and see the bright side of life.

 

 

Why make the switch?

 

Because when your mind gets good stuff, it starts working better. You'll find yourself feeling more creative, seeing solutions instead of problems, and generally feeling more upbeat.

 

Starting is as simple as making small changes: maybe replace one reality TV binge with a documentary or a creative hobby, or start your day by reading something uplifting instead of diving into social media.

Staying positive is not about ignoring the bad stuff; it's about not letting it take over. It's recognizing that, yes, there are challenges, but there are also amazing things happening and lots to be grateful for. The more you feed your brain positive thoughts, the more you'll notice your mood, your creativity, and your outlook on life getting better.

 

I want to share something really important for artists: keeping your thoughts positive can really boost your creativity and get those creativity and productivity juices flowing. It's like when you start the day thinking, "Today's going to be a great day," you're already setting the stage for good things to happen, especially in your art.

 

Start to feeidng your brain with the good stuff. This means finding things that inspire you and make you feel upbeat. Maybe it's listening to a podcast from an artist you admire while you have your morning coffee. Or how about swapping your usual news scroll for checking out an online art gallery or watching a short documentary on creative minds?

 

Gratitude's another biggie. It's just taking a moment to think about what you're thankful for. It could be as simple as being grateful for the colors in the sunset or the way your paintbrush glides across the canvas. This kind of thinking helps your brain focus on the positives, which can make you feel more open and ready to create.

 

Now, let's talk self-talk. It's all about encouraging yourself like you would a friend. Caught yourself thinking, "I'm not good at this"? Flip it to, "I'm getting better every day." This switch can really change how you approach your art and challenges.

 

 

Why does all this matter?

 

Well, when you're positive, your brain is on your side. You're more likely to see possibilities instead of roadblocks, which means you're more open to trying new things or seeing solutions you might have missed before. And for an artist, that's gold. It means more creativity, more flow, and ultimately, more art that you feel proud of.

 

 

 

 

 

5. Celebrate Your Success

 

Celebrating your wins is super important because it helps you see the bright side of your efforts. When you take a moment to recognize what you've accomplished, it naturally makes you feel good. And feeling good? Well, that's like a little boost of energy that makes you want to keep going, keep creating, and keep achieving.

 

The simple truth: celebrating makes you more positive.

When you're positive, you're more likely to tackle new challenges with a can-do attitude. It's kind of like when you get a compliment and suddenly, you're walking a bit taller. Celebrating your own successes does the same thing - it boosts your confidence.

 

Plus, taking time to celebrate also helps you remember why you love doing what you do. It's a reminder of your passion and hard work, and that reminder can keep you motivated even when things get tough.

 

 

 

 

 

6. Rise Early

 

Waking up early is something a lot of successful people swear by, and there's a good reason for it. When you start your day before everyone else, you get this peaceful, quiet time that's just for you. For anyone who's into creating - whether that's writing, painting, or any other form of art - this time can be gold. There are no distractions, no noise, just you and your thoughts.

 

So, how do you become an early riser if you're more of a night owl? It's all about baby steps. Try setting your alarm just 15 minutes earlier than usual and gradually increase it until you hit your goal time. It's less of a shock to your system this way.

 

Creating a morning routine can also make a big difference. Maybe start with something simple like a cup of tea while you sketch or write a few lines. This routine becomes something you look forward to, making it a bit easier to get out of bed.

 

 

Why bother with all this?

 

Well, that quiet morning time is uninterrupted time to think, create, and plan your day. You can get a lot done without the day's usual chaos. Plus, there's something about starting your day on your terms that sets a positive tone for everything that follows.

 

Successful people often use this time for their most important work, or for personal development like reading or exercising. It's about making the most of your day from the start. And once you get into the habit, you might find you actually enjoy those quiet morning hours. It becomes your time to recharge and focus, setting you up for a more productive, creative day.

 

 

Some examples of  famous people who follow this routine: 

 

Mark Wahlberg - The actor and businessman has a famously early start to his day, beginning with a workout at 2:30 AM, followed by a structured schedule that includes time for work, family, and recovery.

( Guys, well, if Mark finds his zen in the wee hours, more power to him! That's his superhero power!  Me? I'm aiming to wake up early too, just when the sky's turning that nice morning blue. Early, but let's say... more human early.)

 

Elon Musk -  the big boss at SpaceX and Tesla, beats the sun up to make sure he can keep all those rockets and electric cars flying and driving straight. He's got his day planned down to the minute - like a real-life superhero, but instead of a cape, he's got a calendar. Starting early lets him tackle the universe (and traffic) one project at a time.

 

Georgia O'Keeffe -  renowned for her beautiful landscapes and flower paintings, was known to rise early to catch the morning light, which she felt was essential for her painting.

 

Serena Williams -  Tennis champion Serena Williams is up early for morning workouts, maintaining her competitive edge and dedication to fitness.

 

Taylor Swift -  The acclaimed singer-songwriter, rises early to harness the tranquility of the morning hours, finding inspiration for her music and lyrics. This routine has been integral to her creative process for years, allowing her to refine her craft and produce chart-topping hits.

 

Gwyneth Paltrow - A well-known actress and lifestyle entrepreneur, embraces early mornings as a time for self-care and holistic wellness. Starting her day with meditation, exercise, and nutritious meals, she prioritizes her physical and mental health.

 

Mark Zuckerberg - The early bird tech guru starts his day with a morning run and a brainstorming session on how to connect the world.

 

Jackson Pollock - The abstract art wizard, kicked off his day by making a colorful mess in his studio and  turning chaos into creativity with every splash of paint, long before the sun came up.

 

 

 

 

 

7. Learn New Skills

 

Learning new things is super important, especially with everything changing so fast. Staying curious and eager to pick up new techniques, tools, or even dive into completely new crafts can open up so many doors for you, both personally and professionally.
 

It's about keeping your brain active, staying adaptable, and making sure you're always growing. Successful people know this. They're always learning—not because they have to, but because they love to. This love for learning helps them stay ahead in their fields and brings new opportunities their way.

 
But where do you start?

 

First, think about what interests you or areas where you feel you could improve. It could be something directly related to your career, like a new software program, or something more personal, like cooking or photography. Identifying what you want to learn is the first step toward personal growth.
 
Once you've pinpointed your area of interest, consider how it aligns with your goals. Ask yourself: Will this skill open new doors? Can it help me do my job better? Is it something I've always wanted to explore? Choosing to learn something valuable not only to your career but also to your personal fulfillment is key.
 
Now, how to begin? Luckily, we live in an age where information is at our fingertips. Online courses, YouTube tutorials, books, and even local community classes offer endless opportunities to learn. Start small to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Even dedicating 15 minutes a day to your new skill can lead to significant progress over time.

 

 

 

Why is this good for artists?

 

For artists, this principle is golden. Well, it helps you stand out in a crowded field. The art world is vast and diverse, so the more skills you have, the more unique your work can become. It can also make your art more marketable. For instance, learning how to use digital tools can allow you to offer prints of your work or design in new mediums. However, it's essential to approach learning strategically. Think about what skills will complement your current style and what might open up new opportunities.

 

And for artists looking to get their work out there, understanding the business side of art - like marketing, online sales platforms, and social media branding - can be just as important as honing your craft. That's where resources specifically geared toward artists, such as guides on selling art or managing an art business, come in handy. They can teach you strategies to reach a wider audience and make a living from your art.

 

If you're an artist and want to get your art noticed, it helps to know how to show it off right. My guide, "HOW TO SELL ART SUCCESSFULLY: STAND OUT WITH EXPERT TACTICS," is all about that. It's straightforward and gives you tips on how to reach more people who might want to buy your art, it focuses on strategies that are effective in today's art market.

 

 

Interested? Click on the image to learn more!

 

Whether you're improving what you already know or starting something totally new, there's a lot out there to help you keep growing. Keeping up with learning helps you stay current and makes your life and work more interesting and rich. It's a way to open doors to new chances, spark fresh ideas, and reach more people.

 

 

Typical Pitfalls

 

Common mistakes include trying to learn too many things at once, leading to overwhelm and burnout. Focus on one or two areas at a time to really deepen your understanding and skill level. Another mistake is not applying what you learn. Make sure to integrate your new skills into your projects to solidify your learning and see how they can impact your work.

 

 

 

 

8. Learn to Say No

 

Discovering how to say "no" can make a big, positive difference in your life. 
It's all about recognizing what's really important to you and not getting sidetracked. Life's full of demands - projects, invitations, even favors from friends or colleagues. But every "yes" to one thing is a "no" to something else, maybe something that matters more to you.

 

Let's clear this up - understand that saying "no" isn't about being negative or selfish. It's about making smart choices with your time and energy. When you're clear about your goals and values, deciding what deserves a "yes" becomes easier.

 

So, how do you start saying "no" without feeling guilty or worrying about upsetting others? Begin by being polite but firm. A simple, "Thank you for thinking of me, but I can't commit to that right now," is straightforward and respectful.

Practice makes perfect. The more you say "no" to things that don't align with your goals, the easier it becomes. You'll start to notice more space opening up in your life for the things that truly matter.

 

It's also helpful to offer an alternative when you can. If you're saying no to one request, and it makes sense, suggest a different way you might be able to help. This shows you're still supportive and engaged, just not in the way they initially asked.

 

Saying "no" is really about making room for  people and things you love. It's not about pushing people away. Instead, it's about respecting your own time and what you need to do. This way, you can really throw yourself into the projects and plans that mean the most to you.

 

When you get the hang of saying "no" to things that don't match up with your goals, you start to see how much it can improve your life. You end up choosing activities that help you grow personally and professionally, and that feels great.It doesn't mean you're being rude. It means you're choosing to focus on what's really important to you.

 

Here's a little story from my own life that might help you see why saying "no" can be a good thing.

 

A while back, we say...back in my 20s, I found it super hard to say "no" to almost anyone. My days were packed with stuff I'd said yes to  -  helping out, going to events, you name it. I thought that's what I was supposed to do, but honestly, I was tired all the time. I thought saying "no" would make me seem selfish. This mindset left me stretched too thin, and honestly, it wasn't great for my well-being. I felt like I needed to please everyone to be liked, and it wore me out.

 

Then, one day, I really wanted to work on something special for myself, but I had already said yes to something else. That's when it clicked for me. I decided to say "no" to the other thing, and guess what? Everything was fine. People understood, and I got to do something that made me really happy. Learning to say "no" made me feel free and in charge of my life. It lifted my confidence and, surprisingly led to more success in my art journey and personal life.

 

From that point on, I got better at saying "no" when I needed to. I found out I had more time for things I loved and felt a lot happier. It wasn't about letting people down; it was about making sure I wasn't letting myself down. It was about balance. I still help, I still participate, but now it's on terms that don't compromise my well-being.

 

I'm sharing this because maybe you've felt the same way. It's okay to say "no" sometimes. Sharing this story isn't about telling you what to do; it's about sharing a piece of my life that brought positive change. If you find yourself constantly saying "yes" and feeling stretched too thin, know that it's okay to prioritize yourself too.

 

 

 

 Interview: Artist Marisol Evora

 

 

 

 

9. Travel More

 

Traveling more is crucial for success because it broadens your perspective and enhances your problem-solving skills. When you encounter different ways of living and new ideas, it naturally makes you think outside the box. This ability to see things from multiple angles is invaluable, especially in creative and professional fields where innovation sets you apart.

 

Moreover, travel can improve your adaptability. Being in unfamiliar environments forces you to learn and adjust quickly, a skill highly valued in today's fast-paced world. It helps you get good at handling tough situations and making the most of new opportunities.

 

Travel also enriches your network. Meeting people from diverse backgrounds can lead to new professional connections, collaborations, or even friendships that open doors you didn't know existed. These relationships can become crucial stepping stones in your career or creative projects.

 

Incorporating travel into your life encourages personal growth, too. It's an investment in yourself, providing experiences that challenge you, teach you, and sometimes even change your worldview. Each journey adds to your life's story, giving depth to your character and work.

 

Traveling more isn't just about seeing new places; it's about opening up your mind. When you explore different cultures and environments, you're giving yourself a fresh dose of inspiration. It's like adding new colors to your palette as an artist. You don't always have to go far. Even discovering a new neighborhood in your city can spark that creative flame.

 

Start small. It could be as simple as taking a different route on your walk or visiting a town nearby you've never been to. The point is to break from the usual and experience something different. Getting into the habit of seeking new experiences can really enrich your life. Every new place has something to teach you, whether it's about different cultures, new foods, or just seeing beautiful sights. These small adventures can spark creativity and give you fresh ideas, which is super valuable no matter what you do.

 

 

 

 

 

10. Follow Your Passions

 

Following your passion can lead to success because when you do what you love, you're more willing to put in the extra effort needed to succeed. It's not just about working hard; it's about enjoying what you do so much that putting in the time feels rewarding, not like a chore.
 

When you're passionate about something, you're more likely to keep learning and improving because you're genuinely interested. This means you get better and better at what you do. Also, when you love what you do, your enthusiasm shows. It can attract opportunities and people who want to support you, like customers, mentors, or collaborators, because they see your dedication and passion.
 

So, in simple words, following your passion makes you work harder, continuously improve, attract opportunities, and have the strength to overcome challenges. All of these factors can contribute to achieving success in what you're passionate about. 

 

When you follow your passion, you:

- Feel happier because doing what you love brings joy and fulfillment.

- Stay motivated because it's easier to face challenges when you're passionate about what you're tackling.

- Become more dedicated because you're more likely to persist through tough times when you care deeply about your work or hobby.
 

However, some people think:

- It's too risky. Yes, following your passion might have its challenges, but the rewards of doing something you love can outweigh the risks.

- It's not practical. Some believe passions should be kept as hobbies, not careers. But with the right approach, many have turned their passions into successful careers.

- They're not good enough. Doubting your abilities can hold you back. Everyone starts somewhere, and with practice and dedication, you can improve.
 

However, it's important to note that following your passion also means being realistic and prepared to face challenges. Success requires time to unfold, and there will be obstacles along the way. But your passion can help you overcome these hurdles because you have a strong reason to keep going - you love what you do.

 

 

 

 

Final Thoughts

 

Getting successful isn't something that just happens overnight. It really comes down to sticking with these good habits day after day.

Why not start making some small changes right now?

Keep at it, and little by little, you'll start to notice your hard work paying off in real ways. Just take it one step at a time, stay true to what you're aiming for, and remember, achieving success, including the financial kind, is definitely possible for anyone.

Keep moving forward and keep your eye on what you want to achieve.

 

And there we have it... I hope you enjoyed exploring the "10 Life Principles for Everyday Success." If you're up for more, there's lots more on my blog.

You'll find stuff on how to grow and succeed, especially if you love art or you're an artist yourself. Plus, there are some fun posts under tag " Artistic laughs" .

 

There's a whole world of art insights waiting for you – from My personal journey as an artist to the Fascinating world of contemporary art. 

 

And if you're just starting out in the art world or you're an emerging artist, there's plenty of valuable stuff here for you too.

 

 

 

 

For all art lovers who adore my Abstract Expressionism and are looking for an affordable way to enjoy it -  you can find HIGH QUALITY ART PRINTS ( ON CANVAS and PAPER ) that won't break the bank over at iCANVAS and LUMAGALLERIE.

 

So, you're more than welcome to join the party!