Consistency Beats Talent: How to Finally See Progress in Your Paintings
You Already Have the Talent
If you’re reading this, the talent is there.
That might sound bold, but it's true. The fact that you're actively seeking to improve your work tells me you’re serious about your painting journey. You’re not a hobbyist dabbling for a weekend—you care. And that means you already have the gift.
The real question isn’t if you have what it takes. It’s what are you doing with it?
Most often, the missing ingredient isn’t skill—it’s consistency.What Actually Leads to Growth in Painting
It’s Not a Secret—It’s a Habit
Over the years, I’ve worked with artists at all stages. Some were incredibly gifted, others had to work a little harder to develop their eye. But what separated those who improved from those who stayed stuck wasn't talent.
It was the willingness to show up—again and again—even when the work felt difficult or uninspired. That’s how growth happens.
I studied painting in school, had wonderful mentors, and still floundered for a long time. I loved art, but passion alone wasn’t enough. It wasn’t until I started painting from life, wrestling with real-world conditions, and putting in the time that things finally began to change.
Why You Feel Stuck (And Why That’s Normal)
Every painter hits plateaus. That’s part of the process.
You make progress, feel energized, then suddenly hit a wall. What used to work doesn’t anymore. You wonder if you’ve lost your touch.
This is exactly when most painters give up—not because they aren’t capable, but because they assume something’s wrong.
What’s actually happening is this: you’re transitioning to a higher level of understanding. The problem is, it doesn’t feel like progress. It feels like failure.
But if you can push through that stage, you’ll find yourself on the other side—stronger, clearer, and more in control of your work.
The Power of Consistency
Even Small Efforts Count
You don’t need to finish a painting every day. In fact, you don’t even need to paint every day. But you do need to stay connected to your craft.
Mix some paint. Sketch. Design compositions in Procreate. Edit your photo references. Rearrange shapes. Remove distractions. Play with value patterns.
All of this is part of the process.
The key is building a rhythm—one where painting becomes part of your regular life, not just something you do when you feel inspired.
There Are No Tricks—Just Time and Practice
You’ve seen the YouTube thumbnails: “One Secret That Will Instantly Make You a Better Painter.” Ignore them.
There’s no secret. There’s no shortcut. No formula. Just core fundamentals and a willingness to keep painting even when it’s hard. Especially when it’s hard.
That’s where real growth happens.
Still Life Is a Training Ground
If you can’t get outdoors, set up a still life indoors. It teaches you almost everything: reflected light, edges, color harmony, shape relationships. It’s all packed into a simple setup—if you’re paying attention.
Artists like Robert Johnson, Laura Robb, and others have shown how powerful still life can be as a learning tool. Don’t overlook it.
Your Breakthrough Is Waiting
Eventually, your efforts will pay off. You’ll feel it in your brushwork. You’ll see it in your color choices. You’ll notice that you’re designing more confidently. And that progress? It fuels you. It gives you energy to keep going.
But you won’t get there without time at the easel.
Month after month. Year after year.
Talent is the spark. But consistency is the fuel.
Final Thoughts
If you’re feeling stuck, you’re not falling behind. You’re becoming.
Push through the plateaus. Keep showing up. Stop waiting for the perfect moment or the perfect idea. Just paint. You already have the talent. Now it’s time to do something with it.
Want more help? I created a free video lesson on How to Paint Better Rocks. You’ll find the link below:
You can also join me in my video series’ below: