Why Making Art Every Day Transforms Your Well-being (Even if You Think You’re Not an Artist)
Have you ever wished you could be more creative but felt like you weren’t “artistic enough”? Or maybe you’ve dabbled in drawing or painting but quickly gave up because it didn’t look “right”? If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many people believe that making art is only for those with natural talent, but the truth is, anyone can benefit from creative expression—regardless of skill level.
Embracing art for wellbeing isn’t about creating masterpieces—it’s about giving yourself the space to relax, express, and find joy in the creative process every day.
In fact, making art every day has been shown to improve mental health, boost confidence, and increase overall well-being. You don’t need to paint grand canvases or master intricate techniques—just a few minutes of creative time each day can have a profound impact on how you feel.
Let’s explore how and why daily art-making can be life-changing, even if you don’t consider yourself an artist.
The Science of Art and Mental Well-being
Art for Wellbeing
Art has been used as a tool for healing and self-expression for centuries, but modern science is now catching up to what artists have always known—creating is good for you.
How Art Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Studies have shown that engaging in creative activities, even for a short time, can lower cortisol levels (the hormone responsible for stress). In a 2016 study from Drexel University, researchers found that 75% of participants experienced reduced stress after just 45 minutes of making art—regardless of their skill level. This means that simply picking up a pencil or brush can help you feel calmer and more centred.
When we create, our brain shifts into a state of focused relaxation, much like meditation. This is known as the “flow state”, where you become fully immersed in what you’re doing, losing track of time and worries. Think about the last time you lost yourself in an enjoyable task—perhaps gardening, knitting, or playing an instrument. Art offers the same escape, allowing you to disconnect from daily stress and find a moment of peace.
Art and Happiness: The Connection
Beyond stress reduction, making art also increases happiness. A study by the University College London found that viewing or creating art activates the brain’s reward system, triggering a release of dopamine—the same feel-good chemical that lights up when we eat chocolate or listen to music we love.
Creativity also encourages mindfulness, which is linked to greater life satisfaction. When you focus on drawing a leaf, mixing colours, or filling a page with doodles, your mind is engaged in the present moment, rather than dwelling on past regrets or future worries.
Why You Don’t Need to Be ‘Good’ at Art
One of the biggest obstacles people face when starting an art habit is the fear of not being good enough. We’re often taught that art should look a certain way—that a “good” drawing must be realistic or a painting must be beautiful. But art isn’t about perfection. It’s about expression, exploration, and enjoyment.
Process Over Product
When we were children, we created freely—without fear of judgment. We scribbled, painted with our fingers, and played with colours, simply enjoying the act of making. But as we grew older, many of us stopped because we were told that our drawings didn’t look “right.” This is where we need to reframe our thinking.
The value of art isn’t in the final piece but in the process of making it. Sketching, painting, or doodling each day brings benefits whether or not you ever show your work to anyone. If you allow yourself to create without pressure, you’ll start to enjoy the process rather than worrying about results.
Mistakes Are Part of the Journey
If you’ve ever hesitated to start a sketch because you’re afraid of getting it wrong, remember this: there are no mistakes in art, only discoveries. Every imperfect line is a step towards learning. The more you allow yourself to experiment and play, the more confident you’ll become.
Even the greatest artists had to start somewhere. Leonardo da Vinci’s early sketches don’t look like his famous masterpieces, and Van Gogh only began painting seriously in his late twenties. What matters most is consistency and curiosity—not talent.
The Magic of a Daily Sketchbook Habit
One of the simplest and most effective ways to build an art practice is by keeping a daily sketchbook. This doesn’t mean creating elaborate drawings each day—it can be as simple as a five-minute doodle or a splash of colour on a page.
How to Start a Sketchbook Habit
If you’re not sure where to begin, start with these small steps:
Keep it simple – Use a small notebook and a pen or pencil. No need for fancy materials.
Set a tiny goal – Commit to just five minutes a day. Even a few lines count!
Draw anything – A cup of tea, a leaf from your garden, or even random patterns. It all adds up.
Let go of judgment – Your sketchbook is a safe space for experimentation, not perfection.
With time, your sketchbook will become a personal diary of your creative journey, filled with memories, thoughts, and emotions.
Real Stories of People Who Started Late
It’s never too late to start making art. I’ve met many people who began drawing, painting, or collaging in their 50s, 60s, or even 70s—and found an incredible sense of joy and fulfilment.
One of my students, a retired teacher, started sketching every day after a lifetime of believing she “wasn’t creative.” Within months, she found herself looking forward to her quiet sketchbook time and feeling more confident in her artistic abilities. Another student, who had never painted before, picked up watercolours at 65 and now fills her home with beautiful, expressive landscapes.
The key takeaway? Creativity has no age limit. The only thing stopping you is the belief that you can’t start. But you can—right now.
If you’re ready to build a daily art habit, my Fill Your First Sketchbook in 30 Days course is the perfect place to start! This guided programme helps you overcome creative blocks, explore different techniques, and develop the confidence to make art every day. With bite-sized lessons and plenty of inspiration, you'll fill an entire sketchbook in just one month—no pressure, just pure creativity. Doors open only once a year, so don’t miss your chance to join a supportive community and start your sketchbook journey.
A 7-Day Art Challenge to Get Started
To help you take the first step, I’ve put together a simple 7-day art challenge. Each day, you’ll complete a small creative task that will help you build confidence and make art a natural part of your routine.
Write this down in your diary and spend 10 minute on each task.
Your 7-Day Art Challenge:
Day 1: Draw your favourite mug or cup.
Day 2: Create a simple pattern using lines and shapes.
Day 3: Sketch something from nature—a leaf, a flower, or a pebble.
Day 4: Try a blind contour drawing (draw without looking at the page!).
Day 5: Add a splash of colour to a doodle using any medium you like.
Day 6: Draw an object from memory—don’t worry about accuracy!
Day 7: Reflect on your week and create anything you like!
You can also join one of my art classes online or in person.
Final Thoughts
Making art every day doesn’t require special skills, expensive materials, or hours of your time. All it takes is a willingness to explore and a few moments each day to create. Whether you’re sketching, painting, or doodling, you’re giving yourself a gift—one of joy, mindfulness, and self-expression.
So, why not start today? Pick up a pencil, open a sketchbook, and see where your creativity leads you. I’d love to hear how it goes—share your thoughts in the comments or tag me on social media!
Happy creating!
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