Great article of an artist's perspective

How to steal like an artist and 9 other things nobody told me

Despite the title, it's not about stealing, but a reflection on what it means to create, and an analysis how an artist or a person is influenced to create.

I love this article because it solidifies a lot of what I've realized over the years.

• I don't have to forbid myself from creating art until "I'm good enough"
• I need to create stuff that I enjoy.  Only then can I make my own decisions and only then can I fully love the results.
• I can love and mimic another artist's style and work, but ultimately I need to find my own style and process.
• Be brave.  If I want to learn something, I will go learn it and try to do it.  Practice even if I'm disappointed with the results.  Especially when I'm disappointed with the results.
• Edit.  Each technique and tool I accumulate should just be something available to be used judiciously.  I should not apply every tool at every possible time.

I was glad to read that side hobbies and projects are important considering I have so many.  I love working and exploring.  It has really helped me learn more about myself over the years.