As a young artist, you are constantly surrounded by people who share similar passions and interests. While this can be a great motivator, it can also lead to creative pressure. This type of anxiety can be overwhelming and affect your emotional stability.
Causes of Competition Anxiety
Competition anxiety in young artists can stem from various factors. Some common causes include:
- Fear of not living up to others
- External validation: The need for external validation and recognition from peers, family, or society can make young artists feel like they’re competing with others to validate their talent.
- Unrealistic expectations: Setting high expectations can create pressure and anxiety in young artists.
Effects of Competition Anxiety
Competition anxiety can have severe effects on young artists, both in the short-term and long-term. Some of the effects include:
- Decreased innovation: Comprehensively focusing on competition can stifle creating new ideas.
- Emotional exhaustion: Prolonged exposure to competition anxiety can lead to physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion.
- Low self-esteem: Feeling like you’re not good enough or that you’re constantly competing can undermine your self-worth.
- Anxiety disorders: Chronic stress and anxiety can contribute to various anxiety-causing conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, and digestive problems.
Strategies to Overcome drawing competition Anxiety
Fortunately, there are several strategies that young artists can use to overcome competition anxiety. Here are a few:
- Shift your thinking: Change your perception of competition from something negative to something positive. View other artists as fellow creatives who can provide support and inspiration.
- Focus on your own journey: Instead of measuring up to others, focus on your own growth, progress, achievements.
- Practice self-compassion: Treat yourself with kindness and understanding. Acknowledge that everyone makes mistakes and errors and that it’s okay not to be impeccable.
- Seek support: Surround yourself with people who can provide encouragement.
- Develop a growth mindset: Believe that your abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort and practice.
In conclusion, the final verdict, ultimately, competition anxiety is a common issue that many young artists face. However, by using strategies to manage anxiety and grow, young artists can focus on their own growth and development. By doing so, they can maintain their artist’s confidence and mental health, even in the face of competition.