Coping with Artistic Anxiety

As a young artist, you are constantly surrounded by people who share similar passions and interests. While this can be a great motivator, it can also lead to artistic self-doubt. This type of anxiety can be overwhelming and affect your emotional stability.

Causes of Competition Anxiety

Competition anxiety in young artists can stem from various factors. Some common causes include:

• Anxiety about not meeting expectations
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• External validation: The need for external validation and recognition from peers, family, or society can make young artists feel like they're competing with others to prove their worth.
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• Unrealistic expectations: Setting impossible goals can create pressure and anxiety in young artists.
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Effects drawing of poster making Competition Anxiety

Competition anxiety can have severe effects on young artists, both in the short-term and long-term. Some of the effects include:

• Decreased innovation: Comprehensively focusing on competition can stifle creating new ideas.
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• Physical fatigue: Prolonged exposure to competition anxiety can lead to emotional and physical problems.
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• Eroded self-confidence: Feeling like you're not good enough or that you're constantly competing can damage your ego.
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• Anxiety disorders: Chronic stress and anxiety can contribute to various anxiety-causing conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, and digestive problems.
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Strategies to Overcome Competition Anxiety

Fortunately, there are several strategies that young artists can use to overcome competition anxiety. Here are a few:

• Reframe your mindset: Change your perception of competition from something negative to something positive. View other artists as colleagues and peers who can provide guidance and encouragement.
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• Focus on your own journey: Instead of comparing yourself to others, focus on your own growth, journey, and experience.
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• Practice self-compassion: Treat yourself with kindness and understanding. Acknowledge that everyone makes mistakes and errors and that it's okay not to be flawless or perfect.
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• Seek support: Surround yourself with people who can provide encouragement.
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• Develop a growth mindset: Believe that your abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort and hard work.
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In conclusion, the final verdict, ultimately, competition anxiety is a common issue that many young artists face. However, by understanding its causes, acknowledging its effects, and using strategies to overcome it, young artists can focus on their own growth and development. By doing so, they can maintain their self-worth and overall well-being, even in the face of competition.