Three Shifts to Make for More Confidence (and Then More Art Sales)
If you’ve ever felt that little knot of fear in your stomach when talking to someone about your art — the one whispering “you’re not good enough yet” — then I made this video (and now, this post) for you.
As artists, we’re taught to create… but not always how to share, market, or sell what we create. That part often feels scary or even foreign. We pour our hearts into our art, only to feel exposed when we put it out there. I get it... I’ve been there.
Early in my journey, I didn’t have the internet, mentors, or any roadmap to follow. It was just me, two kids, and a dream. Back then, galleries seemed like the only way, and street fairs didn’t fit my situation. Over time, I had to figure things out, learning not just the craft of acrylic painting, but the courage and self-belief to share it.
And that’s where these three shifts come in.
Shift #1: Remember, Every Master Was Once a Beginner
Every single artist starts where you are, uncertain, curious, and a little afraid. The only real difference between an early painter and a confident pro is practice. Every brushstroke, every canvas, every mistake, they’re all teachers in disguise.
When you adopt the mindset that you’re competing only with your past self, something changes. The pressure lifts. You realize your art isn’t supposed to look like anyone else’s, it’s supposed to look like yours.
You grow confidence not by waiting for someone to validate you, but by showing up again and again until you can see your own progress. That’s the kind of confidence that quietly comes through when you speak to buyers. It’s not showy; it’s steady. It says, “I know who I am and I believe in what I create.”
Shift #2: Confidence in Pricing Your Work
Let’s be honest, pricing can feel like the hardest part. You put your heart and soul on that canvas, and then you have to put a dollar amount on it? That’s vulnerable.
But here’s the truth: not every painting will sell right away. That doesn’t mean it wasn’t good enough, it just means its person hasn’t found it yet. Every artwork has its match. I got caught in this trap many times and stopped showing a piece over it. (Only to find that it had a person too, sometimes ten years later.)
When you price from confidence - not fear - people can feel that. They see it in how you talk about your work, in the way you stand next to it, and in the energy you radiate. So even if a piece doesn’t sell at a show, remember... your worth and your work’s value are not dictated by that day’s outcome.
Your art is meant for someone specific, and sometimes patience is part of the process.
Shift #3: Redefine What Success Means
This one might be the most profound shift of all. So often, we measure success by external metrics, like the number of sales, followers, likes, or validation. And while those things can be part of success, they aren’t the whole picture.
What if success meant showing up consistently for your creative practice? What if it meant trusting your inner guidance... (the same one that whispers the next brushstroke or color choice) to lead your nest business choice?
True confidence comes from alignment and knowing that your art, your growth, and your journey are unfolding exactly as they should. Success isn’t out there. It’s already within you, and waiting for you to catch up to it.
Why These Shifts Matter for Artists
These mindset shifts aren’t just about confidence. They’re the foundation of sustainable art careers. When you begin to see yourself not just as a creator but as a thriving, authentic artist entrepreneur, opportunities begin to find you.
If you’ve ever struggled with fear around selling your art or doubted whether you were “good enough,” you’re not alone. I’ve walked that road and it’s why I coach and create content to help other artists rise above those same doubts.
You deserve to gift the work you do to the world, let it brighten someones day, change a mind or heart. The world needs what you have to offer... and only you can give it.
Ready to Grow as an Artist?
If this message resonated with you, I’d love for you to:
- 🌟 Subscribe to my YouTube Channel where I share weekly videos on art, mindset, and confidence.
- 💖 Join me on Patreon where I dive deeper into artist coaching, share behind-the-scenes lessons, and support other artists in building thriving creative lives.
Every artist deserves to feel confident, connected, and supported — and I’m honored to walk beside you on that journey.