Finding Flow

Episode Summary:

Today I’m sharing how I find that magical flow state where everything aligns, distractions fade and creativity feels effortless. It’s a beautiful space, but I know it can feel elusive, so I’m exploring what helps me get there.

My Top Tips for Entering Flow:

Building a Routine:

I find that setting a regular painting time each week helps immensely. Fridays are my go-to painting mornings. I also have a small setup ritual that shifts my mind into a creative space—setting up my MDF board, taping my palette paper, gathering my brushes and palette knife, and mixing paints. These steps help me ease into the process.

Handling Distractions:

If you’re like me, you know how fast the mind wanders! I keep a notepad nearby to jot down any “to-do’s” that pop up, freeing my mind to stay focused on painting.

Embracing Process Over Perfection:

I try to start with loose, expressive strokes, not worrying too much about the final result. My goal is to capture a feeling rather than overthinking each mark—letting intuition guide me.

Setting a Background Vibe:

For me podcasts are the perfect background to keep my focus. They make the time feel even more personal, letting me listen to something I love while painting.

Extras & Links:

If you’re looking for inspiration, I’ve posted a new Sketchbook Adventures video on YouTube here. These videos are all about spontaneous flow in a low-pressure sketchbook setting.

I’ve also released a free guide, Ethereal Expressions: Building Depth and Emotion in Abstract Landscapes. It’s filled with tips on creating atmospheric, layered abstract landscapes. Download it here.