Hey there!
I relate to this comment SO MUCH. It is something I have been struggling with for may years now. Man, thank you for commenting this, as I feel a little less alone in what I have been going through.
When I was a teenager living at home with my parents I had so many hopes and dreams… wanted to be in a band, wanted to make music, make youtube videos, art, open my own art shop… I am now going on 25 this November and it is so painful to look back at how much I wanted to do with my life, and to have nothing to show for it at the moment. That feeling is so painful, and it’s something you do not deserve. I am so sorry you are struggling with this as well, gosh it is so HARD.
I totally get the struggle with confidence, at work, at home, in public, just like at the grocery store trying to park my car… confidence is such a hard thing to attach to. Even though I do still struggle, it has gotten so much better as I have learned to overcome obstacles. I believe it is crucial to remind yourself that you can’t start at the top, being a pro at everything, that is something I really need to work on with myself right now. I know how frustrating it can be when you spend time on creating something, and in the end you don’t think it’s good enough. We are our own worst critic, remember that.
I have made some art and even though I didn’t like it, I posted it anyways, and to my surprise people liked it! I think it is good to keep an eye on your improvements, such as in the beginning of my art journey I felt like I could never draw a character body shape good enough… even though I draw potato people. But over time, I have come to see what I have improved, I have gotten better at making the right curves that I think are good enough for me.
That’s another thing that has helped me, establishing when I know I have worked hard on something, and it is “good enough for me”. Being happy with what you create is really all that matters, it makes you feel good, makes you feel happy, and most certainly people out there will also enjoy your creations.
I have been there where I have just given up completely, I have gone through months and years where I have not touched my guitar or my art stuff, or even tried to do any of it. Please don’t give up, please do what you love! I know how easy it is to succumb to the negative thoughts and feelings, but if you enjoy something, find value in something, you should pursue it!
Please know you are not alone in these struggles, I appreciate you for being open here as I feel less alone in these struggles now. We are always here to listen, to be a shoulder to lean on.
You got this! You are amazing! I believe in you! Keep going!
With love,
Lys