Overcoming the Fear of “Not Good Enough”

We don’t talk about it enough, but the fear of not being good enough is one of the most common reasons people stop creating.

It sounds like:

• “I’m not as good as other artists.”
• “What if this turns out terrible?”
• “Why even try if I know it won’t be great?”

Here’s the truth: That fear is normal, but it’s not the truth.

Why This Fear Shows Up

This fear thrives in comparison. In perfectionism. In the pressure to “get it right.”

But creativity isn’t about proving anything. It’s about showing up. Trying. Learning. Growing.

And the idea that you have to feel confident before you start? That’s the lie.

What to Do Instead

1. Don’t Wait to Feel Ready

Confidence comes after action, not before it.
Start scared. Start awkward. Start imperfect.
Just start.

2. Focus on Progress, Not Proof

Your worth isn’t tied to how polished your art is.
Track your growth, not your likes.
Document the journey — not just the wins.

3. Share Anyway

You don’t need to wait for perfection to share.
Someone out there needs to see your messy, in-progress, real work.
It gives them permission to try too.

A New Question to Ask

Instead of:
“Am I good enough?”

Ask:
“What will I learn if I try this anyway?”

That question is freedom. It’s momentum. It’s how we build creative courage: one burn, sketch, or brave post at a time.

Your Challenge This Week

Create something, even if you think it’s not good enough.
Share it.
Let the fear shrink while your courage grows.

Want More?

If you’re ready to carve out time for creativity and build a practice that sticks, here are some ways I can help:

→ Join Pyrography Academy – Learn, burn & grow your skills »
→ Get twice a month The Smoke Trail newsletter »
→ Shop patterns, tools & comfort objects at Smoky Wood Studios »

You don’t need permission to begin. You just need a spark.