I’ve learned so much since starting my creative resolution in 2014. About how important setting a goal is. But, not only do we have to set a goal, we need to outline the tasks that will get us there.
My 2014 creative resolution, or goal, was very simply to “be creative.” Early on I wrote (and adapted as I went on) a “weekly checklist” or a set of tasks that would help me achieve my goal. They were:
My 2014 Weekly Checklist:
- 3 pencil sketches – “5 minute sketches”
- 1 watercolor
- 1 acrylic
- illustration (children’s book illustration style)
As the year went on I added things like “figure drawing” to my list, and, as I focusted more on watercolor, acrylic painting moved to my monthly list.
My 2014 Monthly Checklist:
- learn a new technique (from a video, book, etc.)
- 1 acrylic painting
- “other” project (furniture, wood, etc.)
My 2015 creative resolution or goal was to “continue my creative journey.” Right from the start of 2015 I wrote a list of things I have always wanted to try. Some of these things were one time “tries,” while others I incorporated into my checklist (see the last three items).
My 2015 Checklist:
- Try one thing from “the list” each month
- Create almost daily (and post on Instagram)
- Paint with watercolor at least once a week
- Doodle with ink almost daily
- Design a pattern a month
- Practice hand lettering at least once a month
As the new year gets closer and closer, I’m excited to set a new goal, a new creative resolution. I’ve grown so much, I can’t wait to see what 2016 brings! 🙂
mycreativeresolution.com 
I love this idea and strategy! I would love to try this out myself. You have great goals and your work is amazing.
Thank you so much! I appreciate hearing from you. 🙂
Love your image and how you combined all the leaves together and thank you for a great example of making creative lists. I tend to put creative and non-creative things on the same ‘To Do’ list, which can look overwhelming at times. Your breakdown of week/month and “the list” is brilliant.
Thank you! I’m so glad you liked my lists. I can sometimes spend too much time writing lists and have to tell myself – time to get to work! Ha ha
I know the feeling ;D
Beautiful leaf image Eileen. I like the overlap. Your goal setting is a good idea. I’ll look forward to seeing your 2016 list.
Thank you Sharon! I not even sure what will be on it, but I definitely want to make next year count.
Great image, and I love the way you’ve photographed it too. I admire your goal setting and fulfillment! (K)
Thank you so much! I’ve been inspire by some of the people I follow on Instagram like @5ftinf