In recent months, I've been practicing quite a few skills (and one language) such as drawing, photography, designing, coding, Japanese, reading, rock climbing, and I think that’s about it. Perhaps writing—though I see these posts more as an expression of thoughts.
In the upcoming weeks, I'll share my experiences with each skill and the reasons behind my start in them. This week will be drawing.
Drawing served as my entry point into what now takes up much of my time: design. Many people in school considered me the kid who could draw, but truthfully I was mediocre at best, producing mostly copies and tracings. This disconnect between my actual abilities and others' perception resulted in my first encounter with imposter syndrome.
Throughout high school, I tried to become the artist I had falsely presented myself as, only to experience years of frustration and a desire for approval.
As high school came to a close, I grew to hate the stress drawing induced for me. Each drawing had a single goal: perfection to impress others. After graduation, I quit drawing completely and made it very clear to anyone who asked:
"I don't draw, I actually suck at it quite a bit.”
The first time I said this, a weight was lifted. I didn’t need to be great anymore.
Fast forward to March 2023
I've avoided drawing for years, almost developing a fear of it. Until a few weeks ago, I stumbled upon a video titled "How to learn to draw – and why you should." Danny Gregory does an amazing job painting a new perspective on drawing. He conveys drawing as a meditative process that allows one to slow down and immerse oneself in the moment, unattached to the image's outcome.
Drawing can be a language, a means of expression akin to writing, speaking, or sign language—a universal language. Most of us know how to speak, write, and read at least one language, but about what drawing?
"I suck at drawing,"
"I can only draw stick figures."
Not Danny, he believes anyone can draw. All he recommends is a sketchbook, a magic pen, and something in front of you. So immediately after finishing the video I sprung out of bed, drove to the nearest stationery store, and bought myself just that. I sat outside the store, unpackaged all my supplies, and began drawing what was in front of me.
As soon as my pen hit the paper, I began to hear the usual doubts. But then, I recalled that these questions didn't matter. I wasn't seeking greatness like before; I sought a deeper connection with the present moment, free from external expectations.
The drawing was far from impressive, but for the first time, I felt at peace creating imperfect art. There was no frustration or disappointment, only acceptance. I closed my sketchbook, leaving the past behind and anticipating the next drawing.
Since then, I've been drawing every other day, improving my skills and producing artwork that makes me proud—some I never thought possible. More importantly, I've gained the ability to leave the past behind, embrace the future, and focus on what's ahead. A new perspective on the learning process: to embrace it, delight in the journey, and appreciate both the triumphs and failures that come with it.