10 Ways to Make Art a Part of Your Everyday Life

Fuel Your Creativity: How to Stay Motivated to Draw Daily

When I was transitioning from my career in medical law to becoming a full-time artist, drawing every day became my lifeline. It was a chaotic and uncertain time, and I often found myself doubting whether I had made the right decision. But one day, I decided to start small. I picked up a sketchbook and told myself I would draw one thing—just one—every day.

Some days it was a quick doodle of a plant on my desk, and other days it was a fully realized drawing. Over time, those small efforts added up, not just in my skill but in my confidence and connection to art. That daily practice helped me find my footing as an artist and has remained a cornerstone of my creative life ever since.

Are you struggling to stay consistent in your drawing practice? Whether you’re just starting out or have been drawing for years, it’s normal to face moments of distraction, self-doubt, and creative blocks. But with the right approach, you can build a habit that fuels your creativity and keeps you motivated to draw every day. Let me share some tips that worked for me—and might just work for you too.

Building a daily drawing habit is something I encourage and nurture within the Makings and Musings community. Through our classes, workshops, and online space, I help people discover their creative spark, often for the first time or after years of putting art aside. Many of our community members start small, just as I did, and grow their confidence through consistent practice and gentle guidance. Together, we celebrate the joy of creating every day—whether it’s a quick sketch or an intricate painting—and focus on the process, not perfection. It’s a space where everyone, regardless of skill level, can connect with their creativity, find inspiration, and experience the calming, fulfilling effects of making art.

10 Ways to Make Art a Part of Your Everyday Life

1. Set Clear Goals

Give your drawing practice a purpose. Whether you want to improve your shading skills, complete a sketchbook, or simply find joy in the process, having clear, achievable goals keeps you on track. Break them into small steps and celebrate each little win.

2. Establish a Routine

Consistency is key. Find a time that works best for you—perhaps mornings over coffee or evenings to wind down—and stick to it. When drawing becomes part of your daily rhythm, it feels as natural as brushing your teeth.

3. Find Your Why

Why do you draw? Is it to relax, express yourself, or connect with others? Understanding your deeper motivation helps you push through those days when you just do not feel like picking up a pencil. Keep your “why” close—it’s your anchor.

4. Embrace Imperfection

Not every drawing has to be a masterpiece. Some of my favourite pieces started as messy scribbles! Let go of perfection and focus on the joy of creating. It’s about progress, not flawless results.

5. Break It Down

If drawing every day feels overwhelming, start small. Set aside 10-15 minutes for quick sketches. I often tell my students that a little effort every day is more effective than waiting for the perfect moment to dive into a grand project.

6. Experiment and Explore

Keep things exciting by exploring new subjects, techniques, or materials. Try a new pen, experiment with watercolours, or challenge yourself with prompts. Staying curious keeps your creativity alive.

7. Seek Inspiration

Surround yourself with things that inspire you. Visit museums, scroll through art accounts online, or take a walk outside. When I feel stuck, I often look to nature for inspiration—there’s something magical about sketching a leaf or flower.

8. Practice Self-Compassion

Be gentle with yourself. Some days will be harder than others, and that’s okay. If you miss a day, don’t give up—just pick up where you left off. Progress is not linear, and every effort counts.

9. Stay Accountable

Share your work with others, whether it’s with friends, an online art community, or through challenges like Inktober. Accountability helps you stay committed, and encouragement from others can be incredibly motivating. This is how you Make Art a Part of Your Everyday Life.

10. Celebrate Your Wins

Celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Finished a sketchbook? Tried a new technique? Drew every day for a week? Treat yourself and acknowledge your hard work. Small victories fuel bigger ones.

Drawing daily is not just about creating art—it’s about building a practice that nurtures your creativity and your sense of self. For me, it started with those small daily sketches during a time of great change. Over the years, that habit has grown into a creative practice that sustains me through every high and low.

Remember, it’s not about the perfect drawing; it’s about showing up for yourself and your art. Keep going, and who knows where your next sketch will take you!