I try this, but I sail on step two. My lack of ability and self esteem makes me stop and never complete a work...and when I finally post one...I regret

Well the one thing about art is you really have to ignore that self doubt to some degree but you also need to be aware of your short comings to drive yourself to improve. And don't regret it too much, there's some god awful pictures I did when I first started that are still floating around out there somewhere.

Huh, is this why artists take commissions. It avoids the need to be personally creative, and the artist can blame the commissioner if the image is flop in terms of popularity.

lol sometimes commissions can force you to keep working instead of being lazy because you know you're on the clock. But personally I find commissions are much more emotionally and mentally draining then doing whatever I want. Mostly because you have to approach a commission with the mindset that this picture requires your best effort where as I cut corners, experiment and leave stuff unfinished all the time with unpaid stuff because there is no deadline or expectations attached to it.

Well said. By the way, I bestow unto you my greatest gift. +1 Validation

Lol I'll take it ^v^

Aww, you all got a lot more talent than me, so don't ever think its bad X3

Nah I know I've improved at art over the time I've done it. But even with that knowledge I can often feel frustrated I'm not as good as I want to be and it's what has driven me to improve over the years. Just trying to show other people who might just be starting art and get discouraged that it's normal and a lot of artists they probably even look up to often feel the same way.

Ahh yea x3 agree with that completely, don't let the self doubt get you down, for in a lot of cases, especially with the internet, there will always someone who likes it X3 and that can make you push even further to improve!

Cute! XD But you really should give yourself more credit. <3

lol Thank you ^v^

It's mostly a bit of exaggeration for comedic effect but that feeling of being a bit dissatisfied with my art is what has driven me to get better.

That's actually a very common feeling among artists. You are your own worst critics. But also the best inspiration to further your skills! I definitely encourage you to keep going! You've already come so far! :D