Since I’m making art full-time now, I’ve been reflecting on my journey thus far. There are so many things I got wrong in the beginning. I’ve had to change the way I think in order to thrive as an artist. The road hasn’t been easy.

Today, I’m sharing 10 things I wish I could tell my younger artist self. This is a “thriving artist’s manifesto”- rules I live by now in order to maintain a healthy relationship with my art. Had I known these truths sooner, it would have made my art journey much easier.

1. Being an artist is a mindset. There’s no initiation. You just need to start making art, and voila you’re an artist. It’s never too late to begin. The only thing worse than not starting yesterday is not starting today.

2. Inspiration is not an elusive force. You can find it any time by sitting down and doing the work - especially when you don’t feel like it. If you find ways to make the “sitting down” part enjoyable, the art will come.

3. The best artists haven’t made the best work, but the most work. Aim for quantity over quality always.

4. Becoming a better artist is merely establishing processes that make the work feel easier. And it will get easier. However, you will always have things to improve upon. There is no final destination.

5. There’s no such thing as unique art. It’s all been done before. In order to have art that “looks” unique, you need to pull inspiration from as many sources as you can. The more obscure the source, the better.

6. If you ever feel like giving up on your art for good, do something you’ve never done before. Visit a new place or learn something new. That’s the only way to get past it.

7. Make art because you love it, not because you’re expecting results- whether it be fans, money, or recognition. Art is a form of meditation. Do it because of the way it feels to get in the zone. Share your joy in your work, and your ideal audience will find you like moths to a flame. People are drawn to those who love what they do.

8. In your pocket, keep a running list of things to make and you’ll never run out of ideas. Always be prepared for inspiration to strike.

9. Charge what you’re worth so you don’t start resenting the thing you love most. If not for yourself, then do it for the rest of us and future generations of artists to come. If you don’t know what to charge, ask the people who love you most.

10. True freedom comes from time, not money or possessions. Find a way to live your days on your own terms, doing what you love, and you’ll find ultimate success. If you have the luxury of extra money, use it to buy yourself more time by outsourcing.