Self sabotage is the human defence mechanism to prevent failure (i.e. pain). It is fear based. Fear of failure if you like. So if you don't fail, then you don't 'feel' 'pain', so you sabotage yourself. "Fear" is the utmost enemy of a successful life. Conquer the Fear and you will thrive.
I'm going through this right now, sitting on my floor, doing nothing, because I'm afraid that doing something will end in failure and sadness. I just failed big time on something important to me, so I think I'm already a bit beaten up and it's more of a struggle than usual. But you hit the nail on the head here. I'm standing up and getting stuff done now while I finish listening to this video. Thanks :)
Self sabotage is failure by default, while choosing something to fail at may lead to success. Maybe the fear of failure can be changed into fear of failing to fail.
for music to listen to as background music, you cant go far wrong with videogame soundtracks, as for the most part they are literally designed to fill silence but not distract you
27:33 You have become one of the best painting companions for me. Thank you for many peaceful hours with a brush in my hand and headphones on my head, with your voice coming out of them, telling your inspiring stories.
27:34 i literally smiled out of happiness cuz, at that moment, i was listening to the video while fully enjoying my painting time... thanks for being that faithful awesome painting companion
That is me. I’m a 70 year old retired art teacher and artist who thought that when I retired I would bloom with productivity-finally! But after three years it has not been so. I dread working because I do not believe I’ll ever be “successful” at my age, whatever success means. What it should mean is joy, fun, and fulfillment in the process…but I’m weeping inside because I don’t do my work that I am good at. I guess I’ll be subscribing so I can listen to an artist’s counsel who is not inside my own head, where it is sometimes dark and I can’t see. I’m late to your channel so I don’t imagine you’ll see this but thank you.
Adam Duff, Bobby Chiu, and Marco Bucci are my favourite things to listen to while I paint. It's a good way to keep me on the topic of painting but also entertaining me.
Motivation is not as effective especially if you’re dealing with different kinds of challenges (mental, emotional, financial, socially, physically, psychologically, neuro-physio, unhealed trauma, stress, self-sabotage and disconnection from our spiritual connection with the Divine. Human condition is real. We have to go through the dark night of the soul in order to transcend our pain and suffering. You do you. Taking ACTION is better than any motivation out there. Move your body in the healthiest of ways. Listen to your higher Self and BE the best human you can be. Thank you for this reminder, Adam. 🇨🇦👩🏼🎨🍀🙏🏼⚡️
i definitely have motivation... yeah i have a lot of it... i just watch this for research purposes. when i'm going home i am so pumped to sit down and draw... but when i sit at home my energy just get sucked out of me, it's a real struggle... i hate that and i get angry with myself Edit: try with some potassium and magnesium supplements, that might help
You are absolutely correct on this. At the beginning of last year I developed an anxiety disorder out of nowhere and it led to a panic disorder. I had no idea what was going on with me and after countless doctor visits and them telling me its nothing wrong with me it turned out that my vitamin D was critically low. The shit that i've gone through over the last year I wouldn't wish on anyone. Crying intensely over nothing, ruminating about mortality, and i even fainted once which caused everything to spiral further. Anxiety went to heights I didn't know existed and the worst feeling of all to come out of it was depersonalization (that was living hell). Not to scare anyone, but you dont want that, trust me. Please take care of yourselves. After months of taking vitamin D supplements and counseling I am back in school and doing quite well. I also picked up daily meditation and exercise along the way. And most importantly, I never stopped doing art! Keep moving forward no matter what friends.
I often listen to your videos when illustrating BECAUSE they are long, calm and creative, I relate very much to your goal here. Usually when illustrating (sometimes even when I'm cleaning my room, because I have mad problems decluttering and music is too distracting and silence isn't distracting enough) I find myself putting on these exact types of videos, this is exactly right for that state of mind. I'm glad others notice and even make videos about this phenomenon because my friends and family don't seem to relate when I ask!! So I'm glad the community here understands, makes me feel understood. I'm taking a break to stretch my legs and write this comment because I think it's important for you to hear that I really appreciate these sort of one-on-one time, yet in a huge community, type of videos where it is really clear the care and attention is on the creators, their content and your experience, it's a very wholesome type of interaction to me. Thank you so much for making these videos. As a biologist I am familiar with David Attenborough of course, and I also enjoy videos with Bob Ross, Neil deGrasse Tyson or Michio Kaku in it, a lecture type setting without pressure of grades is ideal for inspiration and focus. Sometimes I put on movies that don't require a lot of my attention but that I find interesting, like the curious case of Benjamin Button, or A beautiful mind, because these get my creative mind going, but keep my ears occupied enough for a few hours to not go into daydreaming modus and waste 3 hours thinking about really nothing. Something I started doing unconsciously in highschool is making sure to put on a series I know by heart and that I know all the jokes and imagery to already, like all episodes of a favourite tv show or sit-com, because I wouldn't get distracted by the jokes or images anymore and could tune in and out whenever but still be bored enough to do the actual work I had to do, back then this was studying. Thank you for your helpful, friendly and inspiring content, both for the subject matter, and the ideal setting to be creative, lots of love
I rarely listen to the podcasts and talk-videos while working on my painting because I physically can't stop paying attention to what other people are saying. This is part of my personality, the attitude from childhood that if you don't listen to another person, they can get upset. So I listened to lo-fi radio and mixes, but one day I noticed that the sound of the beat and the rhythm actually distracts me so much. I recently discovered nature sounds (e.g. beach sounds with seagulls, night forest, cicadas etc.) and it works much better for me, sometimes I draw without any sound at all, and some days I can find a slow light lofi playlist without strong distracting beats.
Honestly want to thank you, been staring at a blank page all day working on a storyboard assignment. Constantly getting distracted, I had one of your videos on my watch later and started going on a roll so put like four-five videos in a row.
Besides art talks like these, relaxing video game OSTs are some of my favourite things to listen to while working. Basically any video, typically ranging anywhere from 30 mins to 5 hours, with a title like "Relaxing and calming [title of game] music for sleeping and studying" or something along those lines. There is an abundance of them, and my favourites tend to be Pokémon, Zelda and Xenoblade Chronicles, those series have some killer OSTs for painting. Music from Ghibli movies is a gift from god too. One of my favourite artist to listen to, besides you, is a guy with the username JayAxer on Twitch. He works for Blizzard and talks a lot about work, art, whatever. He also sometimes does art reviews, which is extremely helpful. People send him their art and then he critiques it and fixes mistakes live on stream in a kind and constructive way. It's amazing that he wants to spend some of his rare free time doing that for aspiring professionals and hobbyists, especially for free.
Honestly I listen to your videos because they are calming for my wild thoughts and help me to focus. But also any number of audio books, Boro Dante, Coloring with Kurt, there are as few miniature painters and terrain hobbyists that are fabulous too. One in particular comes to mind for his soothing voice and adorable kittens, (Goobertown Hobbies) he's legit the Bob Ross of miniature painting. Heck even Bob Ross the man himself is an awesomely calming presence. Videos that deep dive into psychology are great too, especially if your creative discipline is at all impacted by the human psyche (so basically all of us lol).
I LOVE to listen to Stuff You Should Know podcast. They have 1300 casts, so nvr need to look for content. They are so relaxed to listen to when they discuss a topic. Perfect for non stop info while drawing/painting.
i listen to your videos while i draw because they are relaxing and i feel the company of someone that does the same thing and not a condescending annoying person. i also cannot be productive in complete silence
it took me three months of following a protocol to fix my circadian rhythm, dont give up if it doesnt work right away, its one of the most worthwhile things you can do for yourself. (protocol included: eating breakfast daily, finish eating by 7pm, off technology by 9pm, no sugar, exercise daily)
I know this is four years old, but right now I love listening to you while I draw haha. I really appreciate how long your videos are for the reason that you're just extremely motivating and make content long enough that I don't need to change videos often. I also love Neil DeGrasse Tyson and listen to him a lot. Other than that I have a lot of audiobooks narrated by Stephen Fry who I find very relaxing, including all the Harry Potter books and his three books on mythology; Mythos, Heroes and Sparta (a lot of my art is centred around mythology and folklore so I usually time it for when I'm drawing something related). I also adore atmospheric/ambient tracks that I usually choose depending on the theme of my picture, and really love the channel Atrium Carceri for some proper brooding, unsettling music for those edgy pictures. Thank you so much for the content you make. Your art is incredibly inspiring and relevant to what I hope to achieve myself, what you say is always inspiring, and at a time in my life where I lost a boring but stable job of ten years due to economic crap and to have no choice but to find the courage to do what I always knew I should have been doing all along, these videos are basically giving me the mental strength I need to push myself into it.
Hey Adam, I'm here to tell you that the single BEST thing to listen to while painting is, WITHOUT a shadow of a doubt, is *interviews and podcasts with Neil Gaiman*. You've probably heard of him, famous English writer, but the guy just has the most calming voice ever, really. And since he's a seasoned storyteller as well, he's really engaging to listen to and he just has this aura of wisdom pouring outwards he's just great, can't recommend enough. Give him a listen if you haven't already.
Yes! This is exactly the kind of vid that I turn on when working, so that my busy mind have something soothing to hear, and let me work without distracting. Thank you Adam for these vids
Dude. You’re saving my life right now. I spend at least 6 hours a day drawing. I definitely bite off more than I can chew, but my mind convinces me that it’s better to be miserable and full than miserable and starving. The burnout is real, but my guilt is stronger. Hearing you articulate how and why you keep your focused quality work limited to 1-3 hours makes me feel better about not spending so much time drawing. Thank you.
I would put on 1+ hour long soundtrack videos. Those helped me a great deal. I really need to stop watching videos that are commentary, "Tea" type videos and I need to watch your videos or music long form videos. My mind is so active and I need to shut it off. And I end up just sitting there constantly moving through UA-cam videos instead of watching something all the way through. I get board so easily and start 'shuffling' through all of my usual content. Focus is such a problem. This video was a huge help. You always are. ❤️
That was really interesting. I'm currently working on a project that is looking at procrastination but hadn't heard that it could be medical before, that is always worth considering rather than just mentally beating ourselves up for being lazy. I personally don't believe in laziness, there is always a cause.
27:33 i never find any other long video that can soothen my mind other than yours... Thank you for calming myself whenever i wanna drawing something, it's really annoying that sometimes by being alone is enough to cause me to lost my focus, and sometimes music doesn't give me enough energy feel when i want to draw... if that happen i would turn to your channel and find one or few videos so i can have something to listen while drawing and it's really calming... Really Adam Duff, Thank you.
I just discovered your channel thanks to this video and i really want to thank you, i m in a bad moment of my life, i stress for everything, my home isn't a relax place anymore to me, i m having pressure just standing beside my family and i started putting a mask when i m talking to them. This video didn't resolve this issue but at least it gave me a direction in which i have to go and i got back the pleasure of drawing that i lost and mostly it gave me confidence. Thank you very much for taking time to make these videos.
I just had this conversation with my boyfriend earlier today and I found this video by chance. I feel like this video is exactly what I needed to hear; especially from a fellow artist. He's been trying to encourage me to exercise with him a little bit every day and I haven't yet because I already feel panicked if I dont start dinner right away no matter how hard I try, its not said and done until 8pm (because the later everything gets done, the less time I have to relax or do things I enjoy). I feel like I already have so little time and only a few drops left from the "energy bucket" by the end of the day, yknow? I work a 9-5 type desk job so I get home and feel mentally drained. Therefore getting home and sitting in front of a desk to draw or write can be...hard. Ive already wanted to make diet changes for health reasons, but the exercise habit in the way you explained makes a lot of sense. I never really put much stock into exercise in terms of weight loss because Im aware that no matter much you exercise you can't outrun your fork lol (can't run off more calories than you took in from eating garbage food) But i never really thought of it like habits to train your hormones to "follow" so to speak.
Adam the first thing that im doing when i turn on my desktop every single day i play one of your podcast and i start painting , you are my inspiration thank you soo mush for sharing with us your experiences its a pleasure from you ♥♥♥♥♥
You don't know how much this helped. As a student I've been trying it all... while balancing other arts I enjoy wand what toi learn. I'd always find myself questioning if I was doing the correct efforts. When all I needed was a little push to start. And listening to your videos I learn so much more than I'd do in the classroom. Bless your heart. We need more teachers like you. Thank you. ♡
listening to this while storyboarding (listening to you helps!) and suddenly hearing you talking about thyroid disease, had to comment... I was born without the thyroid gland so I'm just constantly hypo and motivation is sooooo hard to pin down even tho I've been medicated my entire life. sometimes your body is just working against you and you have to forgive yourself for not being able to do more.
Backgroung music (like, lo-fi chillhop) is just great, but today I chose ur video as a background for drawing) cause it's motivating and still allows not to get drowned in my own distracting thoughts Thank u!
39:50 I really love listening to hirumaredx, his voice is really soothing and the music in the background of his videos are really calming whenever I feel like I need to calm down. It brings me to a soft, and quiet place and helps me become productive when I feel like I'm out of inspiration and motivation. I know that this video is over 3 years old, but I felt like putting this out here. Whenever I need help for inspiration, I love coming onto your youtube page and watching your videos, whether they were posted 3 days ago, or 2 years ago. It makes the atmosphere feel much more calm and heartfelt. As I have been struggling with art block for a while, coming back to your videos help me find that motivation to draw again. Thank you for your time and effort, it really helps me understand a lot of what I never understood before!
you allow me to understand my thoughts better, i do not tend to talk much nor ever was a good talker, however the way you put things together rearranges ideas inside my head... i also love listening to Vati for the same exact reasons you listed, I cant afford to go to art school nor have an art teacher where i live so thank you for allowing me to experience having a painting companion, and pretty much a teacher in both art and life.
Hey! I dont know if you still read these on you older videos, but i found your channel a month ago or so and whenever im drawing i listen to your videos because they relax me a lot, and put me in the "now drawing" mindset. I really appreciate your channel!
Soooo greatful to have found your amazing channel. I have been in creativity exile, pergitory for 20 years.cant find and connect to a creative community, can't do art ,design craft ,any creative outlet for the joy. I'm a polymath so when someone says whats your style " MY SHTYLE .... THE ART OF ......... Thank for your insight my friend .
I personally watch all youtube on speed x2. Everybody who has ever found this out has questioned how I can stand it let alone understand it. Most of that reason was because if I was watching it quicker, I could watch twice as much. Literally only your videos do I turn it off for whilst working on art.
I used to love listening to Lazy Masquerade. He does creepy stories. Voice is really nice and some of his videos are really long. Had to stop cause I get freaked out easily in the new house, but I recommend him to people who love creepy stories: folklore encounters, ghosts, serial killers, near kidnappings, strange things that don't make sense. He's not quite to 1 million viewers but he really deserves it.
Hey Adam, I seriously need to thank you for this video. I've struggled to stay motivated for so long, I've also had a diagnosis for hypothyroidism for pretty much all of my life and I never realized that this affected me art wise. I'm going to take everything you said and go get my thyroid under control so i stop being so hard on myself. Seriously THANK YOU
I started watching your vids and found myself listening a lot more than watching. I am one of those that don't like noise while i work but do enjoy music or some sound advice like your vids. Thanks for these.
a bit late maybe but I enjoy keeping Christopher Odd playing his games in the background while I work, especially the horror games playlists that he makes, games I will never have time to play and I can semi follow along while I work with either my painting or my motion. Hot tip is watch his play through of SOMA, brilliant game and great story. Deeply philosophical, if you let it.
I have developed a habit to listening to your videos while I paint :) It seems that I'm another person who can only be productive if I'm listening to something.
You just hit me in my pretty face and yelled at me to stop being so lazy and to take care of myself and exercise. Thanks! I've recently found a big purpose to keep on drawing and now thanks to you I have a purpose to stay healthy.
i tend to listen to your videos as i (try to) draw/paint as your voice is very calming, you expand my mind with the stuff you talk about and i can look at the screen now and again and be instantly inspired.
when i want to calm myself i listen to Peter draws (youtuber) and the way he talks about drawing makes me feel like its not about how good or bad the drawing i am making is but rather about how i feel and i believe when you have the right feeling towards something it does´nt matter if you are actually good at it.
I never comment on videos but you’re videos always come out at the right times. Yesterday I was really downing myself because I just couldn’t put something on paper and felt like I haven’t grown or progressed at all. I’ve just recently started my tattoo career and it’s been a challenge to balance my art vs tattoo art, Im worried that trying to mix them would have negative effect on them. You’re videos always help me just sit down and just draw for myself. Thank you deeply for the content you make for the struggling artists out there. Whenever I feel like I haven’t progressed I go through my portfolio to look at my work to show myself that I have, then look for something I haven’t tried and work on that. The relaxing music of Dark souls/Bloodborne/ Demons souls Is always a treat. Thank you again
I'm more then motivated to make my own artwork, I'm overflowing with artistic energy and ideas. This being said, I really don't know where my art style fits and after 4 ish years, i don't know if I'd really be a useful artist to the industry, I'm too slow and far too shy. I think I'm more emotionally burnt out then anything else, which is really making reassess my needs and future goals. That's when I turn to things that distract me... but this is a story as old as time lol
I m really thankful to have found your channel, and the fact that u too have the same "wandering" mind as i experience it its encouraging, i got diagnosticated with anxiety and sleep problems, mainly insomnia. And learned that anxiety is like a trap for an over active mind, that i can stop at the point of being too much or at the point it's not helping me solve the problem and just goes down the rabbit hole. Meditation really helps keep it in check but im still at the start of understanding it and practicing it. Also a good youtube channel i like watching is the exploring series on SCP.
I have hypothyroidism and only just THIS YEAR I realized that ALL of my hardships, struggling to lose weight, pulling my eyelashes, unable to be motivated or focused on anything other then video games, filling like there is something wrong with me, was all caused by that. The numerous times my parents pushed me to give more then I could. All the times I felt alone like I am the problem I am broken. This was eye-opening even tho people tell me that my condition is an excuse. Honestly people are so conditioned that life is a struggle that when you are not achieving up to their expectations you want you to struggle more without actually thinking critically and finding the root of the problem. Also podcasts are my salvation. I cannot function without someone constantly buzzing in my ear. r/Slash is particularly helpful but has very short videos. Just find your thing and you will see motivation will come to you. Look at art that inspires you, study other people's style or approach. Get your hear into the mindset that this is a time to do art. I can be as little as drawing a sphere or spending 2 minutes on a pose or as long as your heart desires but making yourself enjoy the time that you spend learning or developing your skills is a game changer. You have to learn how to make this the fun time rather then the exhausting, energy requiring task.
I love drawing when in voice chat with people that talk with each other. makes me feel like im a part of the group but without a need to involve myself in the convo. otherwise i love listening to "triforce" of yogscast in BG. pretty fun guys
I have a lot of symptoms of an underactive thyroid but I've had a bunch of tests and there's nothing wrong with me. However, I need to get a hold of my habits and take charge of my actions before I continue worrying about that. We'll see after that.
Have you checked Dysautonomia (there are types other then just POTS which usually is quick to come up when it's googled; it's a variant of dysautonomia, not all types have the extreme dizziness and heart rate upon standing), it can have similar symptoms to issues with the thyroid. As well as chronic fatigue like symptoms sometimes. Often goes misdiagnosed, or not diagnosed at all, took me 7 years of tests to find out what it was. If you read up on it and it sounds like it may be the cause of your symptoms; and if you want to talk to someone who's familiar with going down that road feel free to hit me up.
Hi I have come across your channel and have to say the work that you do with art and videos are really inspirational and help full. One thing a have to admit is how true this subject is. This also made me realized why I like and ease into your content as I am working on a art piece or busy with studies. When I studied Art and Design at college the hours between different classes would be round about 45min and now that I have started listening mostly to your content it's like my body is reminded of how to work with in that time period again. I say this because every time I am working on something and then at the end of your video it's almost like I am reminded that it is time to take a brake now. Thank you for teaching me how to choose content in healthy way. Hope you have a wonderful year ahead.
feels like a wakeup call cause damn, I really might have to go and get checked... Ive been feeling extremely exhausted, too tired to do much besides just yawn and sit on my ass. ironically we have a decent diet at home, and Ive been working out too, but i end up nearly falling asleep after im done, just yawning and feeling my eyes super heavy. Maybe there really is something wrong physically. Great video Adam, wish i had some channels to recommend, but sadly I mainly listen you to hahaha! or music ;)
Often have issues with 'selecting music', not only with art but with other sort of work as well. Sometimes I spend too much time looking at which song to listen to on UA-cam and it has the same 'dopamine drive deficit' effect as watching short videos and seeing what to watch next. Funnily enough I was looking for music when I clicked on this video and now I managed to get some stuff done while listening to this, so that proves your point :). Longer podcast- like videos/audio I recommend are Planet Money on itunes, Extra Credits (their vids are short but they're good on autoplay), Animoot podcast here on YT, Sideways (a commentary channel about music) and Mentour Pilot, a channel who does interesting talks about aviation.
If anything, I've noticed I can work really well on your videos :) You have a nice and calm voice to listen to, and I don't have to actively pay much attention to follow along with your interesting stories at the same time, which enables me to focus on my own work! Thank you for your videos
Honestly, most of the time when I watch a video of yours that addresses such fundamental topics like this one, I keep asking myself why I didn't think of what you just said - in this case, balance. Of course, if I - the artist - keep an unbalanced and irregular, maybe even resentful life, all the other parts of my life will suffer - and that includes my artwork. Yet, I still didn't even get close to genuinely realizing this over the time I asked myself why all my motivation is gone. So, thanks. Thanks for giving all the amazing incentive, I'll head out right now and go for a jog so I can actually get some movement going LOL. Much love to you man!
Your videos are a god send. I'm not an artist. But most of your advise I find helpful for issues with focus in other careers as well. So thank you for that.
I just wanted to say thank you. You have been my painting companion for so long, my mind runs at a mile a minute. Your videos being longer and so calming really help me center myself to keep me painting. Truly thank you Adam
Thanks for this vid! I knocked out a majority of this commission I've been sitting on for a couple months now while listening. Another good art youtuber I like to listen to while drawing is trickywagon. She makes these long studio vlogs of her just going through the motions of setting up and preparing for comic cons and I find them both super relaxing and super educational.
Wow I’m glad I found you. I moved to Joshua Tree to find myself and found my artist. Started a business selling art now w pandemic forced to sell online. I do custom macrame and crystal art. I stay up all night and get nothing done just to be frustrated with life. Ughhh Every podcast spoke to me. Thanks for making me feel as if I’m not a tortured soul but just have to get the logistics down and be the friend/observer to create in an organized way. I saw a creativity prayer that said “let this art not torture or make me an addict to my art. Can you speak to that?? So true. Thank you for sharing your soul
Adam, your videos have become one of my go-to channels for needing In-The-Groove audo during my artwork. Only other channels I listen to consistently are Marco Bucci, and Drawfee; The group at Drawfee is much more casual/comedy, but their attitude towards drawing is extremely supportive and uplifting, even if you don't look at the video itself.
You hit the nail on the head with the short videos, Adam. They are a black hole of productivity. The Stuff You Should Know podcast and really any true crime podcasts are great (someone knows something from CBC radio is one that comes to mind), and instrumental artists like Emancipator and Bonobo are pretty amazing to get into the zone as well.
31:40 dont know how it works but i really want to start drawing every time i turn on any of Ahmed aldoori podcasts. when he is talking about art and stuff its just feels like a bit hypnotizing for me and yes, ive always had some problems with productivity, but not motivation. and one thing i noticed is that the workplace is extremely important. i have a small table and ucomfortable chair + some people are always walking around, so with that condition my most productive time starts after 00.00, at the time of total silience. but once i had a period when i decided to rent a flat with a way better workplace and after that my productivity increased a lot, so i worked 3-8 hours a day easily
thanks for this video, one i didnt realize i do this until you described it - liking sorta 1 dimensional something i can play to fill in the background thats enjoyable, yet i dont have to constantly be finding the next video or thing.. 2, i do realize i like it when people list out the things they especially like.. like your own curated list.. currently im always asking artist for their favorite artists.. just cause im completely new to this world and i think im trying to either learn something specific or looking for the limits, or what would be considered, this domains’ cutting edge.
I love the positive, holistic vibes and suggestions, thanks! I've been through what you're talking about re: struggling with health, balance of activity and motivation, and you're dead right. Edit: stuff I listen to- Hardcore History Philosophize This Myths & Legends
Thank you, you've definitely succeeded at being the most appreciable drawing companion, at least to me personally. Your way of expression and string of thought is something that settles right within me and remains to resonate longer and more vigorously than the alternatives.
You yourself are always one of my go-to's when I'm working! Listening to your advice in this particular video made me realise that I already do most of these things, and you're right it definitely works. Others I enjoy, and you might too, are: Marco Bucci, Marc Brunet, Trent Kaniuga and FZDSCHOOL. These are channels definitely worth your time!
Hey Adam, just found this video, thanks a lot for everything in it. This was a great listen while painting! Your voice/background music makes it really easy to zone into what I'm working on. Don't know if anyone has mentioned him, but another UA-camr I love listening to is Joseph Anderson. He does video game analyses/essays and his videos are long, well researched deep dives on games like The Witcher, Bioshock etc.
I've actually taken to listening to audiobooks on Audible while doing art. I get to read more and also have more focus while working, so it's been great!
Besides documentaries I listen to books on tape. Lots of books on youTube you can find by authors you like. Latest one I started to listen to was Jim Butchers book Storm Front, the first in the Dresden Files series. Love the wizard Harry Dresden!
I'm not a painter, but I'm a motion designer. Discovered your channel 2 days ago and I want to really appreciate you for this. I've been playing your videos back to back while I'm working and somehow it has really helped me to stay focused, listening to you talk. And your words of wisdom and encouragement has really been a source off motivation and I can honestly say that I feel different, motivated and encouraged by you. Thank you.
I really like listening to some guy called Adam Duff on youtube. His videos really help me keep motivated and his talks help me out a lot while I paint. Looking forward to the next one.
I love listening to Steven zapata when I draw, because sometimes when I don’t get the motivation to work, I turn on one of his videos and just by saying let’s start drawing for 10 minutes I’ll go on after for hours. Sometimes you just need a little help to move forward fast
The answer is easy one just needs to learn to live without a social life, without exercise, without relationships. It is unhealthy but art is a jealous mistress she does not tolerate you spending time with other things. I have the outmost respect for you to have such an organized life I am positive I would not survive a single day you have just described. If I don't draw for that 6 hours (or whatever) a day I get anxious and worried that I am loosing progress and loosing time. Of course I can't realistically do that daily ether so mos of the time I only manage to get done way less.
I love to listen to some audiobooks while drawing, it`s really great because they lasts for hours and you haven't distracted. And by the way your channel is great, I am glad I found it!
Adam, thanks for being my painting companion! You've been an essential aid in getting these last couple of weeks work done :) I find listening to you and other things is most effective when I'm in a mostly processing / 'auto-pilot' workflow, but when i'm trying to be creative or solve a problem I need either silence or ambient music. Music with lyrics *always* distracts me. As for suggestions for thing you can listen to, I recommend trying some table-top RPG 'actual play' sessions. There are some really big well-known ones out there like Critical Role, Acquisitions Incorporated, Adventure Zone, MCDM, and Roll Play. But there's loads of smaller creators making them too (myself included)! Find one you like and have a listen :) I have also found that audiobooks make for a great painting companion
26:00 that is precisely why I love binging your videos as I work so much, I can listen to you and still have my other screen filled with my references so I don't have to tab out of my document all the time.
I usually watch Drawfee! It has been awhile, but they're a bunch of goofy friends who sometimes make dumb stuff and sometimes make really cool pieces, but it is always a joy to hear them working... and it is something that I can watch from time to time, but they're working usually at the same pace as I am, so I don't have to watch every second.
![Are You PUSHING Yourself TOO HARD? [FORSAKEN CLERIC Part 1]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/PzJ2vE3e11A/mqdefault.jpg)
Self sabotage is the human defence mechanism to prevent failure (i.e. pain). It is fear based. Fear of failure if you like. So if you don't fail, then you don't 'feel' 'pain', so you sabotage yourself.
"Fear" is the utmost enemy of a successful life. Conquer the Fear and you will thrive.
This needs more likes, and should be pinned. It is 100% true.
I'm going through this right now, sitting on my floor, doing nothing, because I'm afraid that doing something will end in failure and sadness. I just failed big time on something important to me, so I think I'm already a bit beaten up and it's more of a struggle than usual. But you hit the nail on the head here. I'm standing up and getting stuff done now while I finish listening to this video. Thanks :)
This. Just this. Too true
great when you have a personality disorder with that shit
Self sabotage is failure by default, while choosing something to fail at may lead to success. Maybe the fear of failure can be changed into fear of failing to fail.
for music to listen to as background music, you cant go far wrong with videogame soundtracks, as for the most part they are literally designed to fill silence but not distract you
*kar in tuk*
I listen to Lofi or foreign music where I can’t understand the words. Lyrics distract me too much xd
totaly music channel the feels is like a lighthouse in the storm of thought
Eurobeat: *Gives you the sudden urge to drift your pencil*
I choose elder scrolls or Zelda compilations when I do art.
27:33 You have become one of the best painting companions for me. Thank you for many peaceful hours with a brush in my hand and headphones on my head, with your voice coming out of them, telling your inspiring stories.
Well Smuzmo, thank you so much - trust me that the pleasure is all mine :)
Agreed. He always gets me wanting to draw. His voice is calming and he's so encouraging.
this guys just makes me keep on going can't believe i've finished 3 environoment design for 45 minutes 😅
27:34 i literally smiled out of happiness cuz, at that moment, i was listening to the video while fully enjoying my painting time...
thanks for being that faithful awesome painting companion
Aww man, my absolute pleasure Mouad :)
That is me. I’m a 70 year old retired art teacher and artist who thought that when I retired I would bloom with productivity-finally!
But after three years it has not been so. I dread working because I do not believe I’ll ever be “successful” at my age, whatever success means. What it should mean is joy, fun, and fulfillment in the process…but I’m weeping inside because I don’t do my work that I am good at.
I guess I’ll be subscribing so I can listen to an artist’s counsel who is not inside my own head, where it is sometimes dark and I can’t see.
I’m late to your channel so I don’t imagine you’ll see this but thank you.
Adam Duff, Bobby Chiu, and Marco Bucci are my favourite things to listen to while I paint. It's a good way to keep me on the topic of painting but also entertaining me.
I’m right there with you Marina, they’re two of my top favorites - just authentic and endlessly talented :)
Motivation is not as effective especially if you’re dealing with different kinds of challenges (mental, emotional, financial, socially, physically, psychologically, neuro-physio, unhealed trauma, stress, self-sabotage and disconnection from our spiritual connection with the Divine.
Human condition is real. We have to go through the dark night of the soul in order to transcend our pain and suffering.
You do you.
Taking ACTION is better than any motivation out there.
Move your body in the healthiest of ways.
Listen to your higher Self and BE the best human you can be.
Thank you for this reminder, Adam. 🇨🇦👩🏼🎨🍀🙏🏼⚡️
i just have to say this real quick: thank you for existing. the world needs people who think and act like you do. Love you man.
I think Dan Carlin's Hardcore History series is a good option, although for me it requires a bit too much attention. Really interesting stuff tho!
calling social media the fast food of entertainment is so dead on. loved listening to these while i was drawing, thanks for the vids!
i definitely have motivation... yeah i have a lot of it... i just watch this for research purposes.
when i'm going home i am so pumped to sit down and draw... but when i sit at home my energy just get sucked out of me, it's a real struggle... i hate that and i get angry with myself
Edit: try with some potassium and magnesium supplements, that might help
You might need to shorten the time and watch right before drawing
You are absolutely correct on this. At the beginning of last year I developed an anxiety disorder out of nowhere and it led to a panic disorder. I had no idea what was going on with me and after countless doctor visits and them telling me its nothing wrong with me it turned out that my vitamin D was critically low. The shit that i've gone through over the last year I wouldn't wish on anyone. Crying intensely over nothing, ruminating about mortality, and i even fainted once which caused everything to spiral further. Anxiety went to heights I didn't know existed and the worst feeling of all to come out of it was depersonalization (that was living hell). Not to scare anyone, but you dont want that, trust me. Please take care of yourselves.
After months of taking vitamin D supplements and counseling I am back in school and doing quite well. I also picked up daily meditation and exercise along the way.
And most importantly, I never stopped doing art! Keep moving forward no matter what friends.
I often listen to your videos when illustrating BECAUSE they are long, calm and creative, I relate very much to your goal here. Usually when illustrating (sometimes even when I'm cleaning my room, because I have mad problems decluttering and music is too distracting and silence isn't distracting enough) I find myself putting on these exact types of videos, this is exactly right for that state of mind. I'm glad others notice and even make videos about this phenomenon because my friends and family don't seem to relate when I ask!! So I'm glad the community here understands, makes me feel understood.
I'm taking a break to stretch my legs and write this comment because I think it's important for you to hear that I really appreciate these sort of one-on-one time, yet in a huge community, type of videos where it is really clear the care and attention is on the creators, their content and your experience, it's a very wholesome type of interaction to me. Thank you so much for making these videos. As a biologist I am familiar with David Attenborough of course, and I also enjoy videos with Bob Ross, Neil deGrasse Tyson or Michio Kaku in it, a lecture type setting without pressure of grades is ideal for inspiration and focus. Sometimes I put on movies that don't require a lot of my attention but that I find interesting, like the curious case of Benjamin Button, or A beautiful mind, because these get my creative mind going, but keep my ears occupied enough for a few hours to not go into daydreaming modus and waste 3 hours thinking about really nothing.
Something I started doing unconsciously in highschool is making sure to put on a series I know by heart and that I know all the jokes and imagery to already, like all episodes of a favourite tv show or sit-com, because I wouldn't get distracted by the jokes or images anymore and could tune in and out whenever but still be bored enough to do the actual work I had to do, back then this was studying.
Thank you for your helpful, friendly and inspiring content, both for the subject matter, and the ideal setting to be creative, lots of love
I rarely listen to the podcasts and talk-videos while working on my painting because I physically can't stop paying attention to what other people are saying. This is part of my personality, the attitude from childhood that if you don't listen to another person, they can get upset. So I listened to lo-fi radio and mixes, but one day I noticed that the sound of the beat and the rhythm actually distracts me so much. I recently discovered nature sounds (e.g. beach sounds with seagulls, night forest, cicadas etc.) and it works much better for me, sometimes I draw without any sound at all, and some days I can find a slow light lofi playlist without strong distracting beats.
Bob Ross has always been my best painting companion. Bless his soul.
Honestly want to thank you, been staring at a blank page all day working on a storyboard assignment. Constantly getting distracted, I had one of your videos on my watch later and started going on a roll so put like four-five videos in a row.
Youu are a huuuuge inspiration, man! I reallyy love your motivational talks!
I love hearing that Flood, I’ll keep them coming for you :)
Besides art talks like these, relaxing video game OSTs are some of my favourite things to listen to while working. Basically any video, typically ranging anywhere from 30 mins to 5 hours, with a title like "Relaxing and calming [title of game] music for sleeping and studying" or something along those lines. There is an abundance of them, and my favourites tend to be Pokémon, Zelda and Xenoblade Chronicles, those series have some killer OSTs for painting. Music from Ghibli movies is a gift from god too.
One of my favourite artist to listen to, besides you, is a guy with the username JayAxer on Twitch. He works for Blizzard and talks a lot about work, art, whatever. He also sometimes does art reviews, which is extremely helpful. People send him their art and then he critiques it and fixes mistakes live on stream in a kind and constructive way. It's amazing that he wants to spend some of his rare free time doing that for aspiring professionals and hobbyists, especially for free.
Honestly I listen to your videos because they are calming for my wild thoughts and help me to focus. But also any number of audio books, Boro Dante, Coloring with Kurt, there are as few miniature painters and terrain hobbyists that are fabulous too. One in particular comes to mind for his soothing voice and adorable kittens, (Goobertown Hobbies) he's legit the Bob Ross of miniature painting. Heck even Bob Ross the man himself is an awesomely calming presence. Videos that deep dive into psychology are great too, especially if your creative discipline is at all impacted by the human psyche (so basically all of us lol).
I LOVE to listen to Stuff You Should Know podcast. They have 1300 casts, so nvr need to look for content. They are so relaxed to listen to when they discuss a topic. Perfect for non stop info while drawing/painting.
i listen to your videos while i draw because they are relaxing and i feel the company of someone that does the same thing and not a condescending annoying person. i also cannot be productive in complete silence
it took me three months of following a protocol to fix my circadian rhythm, dont give up if it doesnt work right away, its one of the most worthwhile things you can do for yourself. (protocol included: eating breakfast daily, finish eating by 7pm, off technology by 9pm, no sugar, exercise daily)
I know this is four years old, but right now I love listening to you while I draw haha. I really appreciate how long your videos are for the reason that you're just extremely motivating and make content long enough that I don't need to change videos often.
I also love Neil DeGrasse Tyson and listen to him a lot. Other than that I have a lot of audiobooks narrated by Stephen Fry who I find very relaxing, including all the Harry Potter books and his three books on mythology; Mythos, Heroes and Sparta (a lot of my art is centred around mythology and folklore so I usually time it for when I'm drawing something related). I also adore atmospheric/ambient tracks that I usually choose depending on the theme of my picture, and really love the channel Atrium Carceri for some proper brooding, unsettling music for those edgy pictures.
Thank you so much for the content you make. Your art is incredibly inspiring and relevant to what I hope to achieve myself, what you say is always inspiring, and at a time in my life where I lost a boring but stable job of ten years due to economic crap and to have no choice but to find the courage to do what I always knew I should have been doing all along, these videos are basically giving me the mental strength I need to push myself into it.
Hey Adam, I'm here to tell you that the single BEST thing to listen to while painting is, WITHOUT a shadow of a doubt, is *interviews and podcasts with Neil Gaiman*. You've probably heard of him, famous English writer, but the guy just has the most calming voice ever, really. And since he's a seasoned storyteller as well, he's really engaging to listen to and he just has this aura of wisdom pouring outwards he's just great, can't recommend enough. Give him a listen if you haven't already.
Oh! Actually I didn’t know about him - thank you for the recommendation, I’ll check him out right away!
Yes! This is exactly the kind of vid that I turn on when working, so that my busy mind have something soothing to hear, and let me work without distracting. Thank you Adam for these vids
Dude. You’re saving my life right now. I spend at least 6 hours a day drawing. I definitely bite off more than I can chew, but my mind convinces me that it’s better to be miserable and full than miserable and starving. The burnout is real, but my guilt is stronger. Hearing you articulate how and why you keep your focused quality work limited to 1-3 hours makes me feel better about not spending so much time drawing. Thank you.
I would put on 1+ hour long soundtrack videos. Those helped me a great deal.
I really need to stop watching videos that are commentary, "Tea" type videos and I need to watch your videos or music long form videos. My mind is so active and I need to shut it off. And I end up just sitting there constantly moving through UA-cam videos instead of watching something all the way through. I get board so easily and start 'shuffling' through all of my usual content. Focus is such a problem. This video was a huge help. You always are. ❤️
That was really interesting. I'm currently working on a project that is looking at procrastination but hadn't heard that it could be medical before, that is always worth considering rather than just mentally beating ourselves up for being lazy. I personally don't believe in laziness, there is always a cause.
27:33 i never find any other long video that can soothen my mind other than yours... Thank you for calming myself whenever i wanna drawing something, it's really annoying that sometimes by being alone is enough to cause me to lost my focus, and sometimes music doesn't give me enough energy feel when i want to draw... if that happen i would turn to your channel and find one or few videos so i can have something to listen while drawing and it's really calming... Really Adam Duff, Thank you.
I just discovered your channel thanks to this video and i really want to thank you, i m in a bad moment of my life, i stress for everything, my home isn't a relax place anymore to me, i m having pressure just standing beside my family and i started putting a mask when i m talking to them. This video didn't resolve this issue but at least it gave me a direction in which i have to go and i got back the pleasure of drawing that i lost and mostly it gave me confidence. Thank you very much for taking time to make these videos.
I just had this conversation with my boyfriend earlier today and I found this video by chance. I feel like this video is exactly what I needed to hear; especially from a fellow artist. He's been trying to encourage me to exercise with him a little bit every day and I haven't yet because I already feel panicked if I dont start dinner right away no matter how hard I try, its not said and done until 8pm (because the later everything gets done, the less time I have to relax or do things I enjoy). I feel like I already have so little time and only a few drops left from the "energy bucket" by the end of the day, yknow?
I work a 9-5 type desk job so I get home and feel mentally drained. Therefore getting home and sitting in front of a desk to draw or write can be...hard.
Ive already wanted to make diet changes for health reasons, but the exercise habit in the way you explained makes a lot of sense. I never really put much stock into exercise in terms of weight loss because Im aware that no matter much you exercise you can't outrun your fork lol (can't run off more calories than you took in from eating garbage food)
But i never really thought of it like habits to train your hormones to "follow" so to speak.
I just discovered you. Although I am a writer, I have found your creative presentations to be wise, insightful, and motivating. Thank you.
Adam the first thing that im doing when i turn on my desktop every single day i play one of your podcast and i start painting , you are my inspiration thank you soo mush for sharing with us your experiences its a pleasure from you ♥♥♥♥♥
I started cleaning my entire bedroom while listening to this, and I got some pull-ups done ✅
I find exercise to be really meditative for me, it always sets my day straight and I come up with a lot of ideas while sitting in the gym
You don't know how much this helped. As a student I've been trying it all... while balancing other arts I enjoy wand what toi learn. I'd always find myself questioning if I was doing the correct efforts. When all I needed was a little push to start. And listening to your videos I learn so much more than I'd do in the classroom. Bless your heart. We need more teachers like you. Thank you. ♡
finding your channel has to be one of the best things that happened to me on youtube, just wanted to say this, thank you very much
listening to this while storyboarding (listening to you helps!) and suddenly hearing you talking about thyroid disease, had to comment... I was born without the thyroid gland so I'm just constantly hypo and motivation is sooooo hard to pin down even tho I've been medicated my entire life. sometimes your body is just working against you and you have to forgive yourself for not being able to do more.
My favorite podcast: Art Talks with You and The Ground Up Show with Matt'd Avella.
Ooh! I’m gonna have to look into that!
@@AdamDuffArt You'll love it! I'm sure!
I'm so glad that I somehow landed on this video! Well said and thank you!
Backgroung music (like, lo-fi chillhop) is just great, but today I chose ur video as a background for drawing) cause it's motivating and still allows not to get drowned in my own distracting thoughts
Thank u!
39:50 I really love listening to hirumaredx, his voice is really soothing and the music in the background of his videos are really calming whenever I feel like I need to calm down. It brings me to a soft, and quiet place and helps me become productive when I feel like I'm out of inspiration and motivation. I know that this video is over 3 years old, but I felt like putting this out here. Whenever I need help for inspiration, I love coming onto your youtube page and watching your videos, whether they were posted 3 days ago, or 2 years ago. It makes the atmosphere feel much more calm and heartfelt. As I have been struggling with art block for a while, coming back to your videos help me find that motivation to draw again. Thank you for your time and effort, it really helps me understand a lot of what I never understood before!
you allow me to understand my thoughts better, i do not tend to talk much nor ever was a good talker, however the way you put things together rearranges ideas inside my head... i also love listening to Vati for the same exact reasons you listed, I cant afford to go to art school nor have an art teacher where i live so thank you for allowing me to experience having a painting companion, and pretty much a teacher in both art and life.
Hey! I dont know if you still read these on you older videos, but i found your channel a month ago or so and whenever im drawing i listen to your videos because they relax me a lot, and put me in the "now drawing" mindset. I really appreciate your channel!
Soooo greatful to have found your amazing channel. I have been in creativity exile, pergitory for 20 years.cant find and connect to a creative community, can't do art ,design craft ,any creative outlet for the joy. I'm a polymath so when someone says whats your style
" MY SHTYLE .... THE ART OF .........
Thank for your insight my friend .
I personally watch all youtube on speed x2. Everybody who has ever found this out has questioned how I can stand it let alone understand it. Most of that reason was because if I was watching it quicker, I could watch twice as much. Literally only your videos do I turn it off for whilst working on art.
I used to love listening to Lazy Masquerade. He does creepy stories. Voice is really nice and some of his videos are really long. Had to stop cause I get freaked out easily in the new house, but I recommend him to people who love creepy stories: folklore encounters, ghosts, serial killers, near kidnappings, strange things that don't make sense. He's not quite to 1 million viewers but he really deserves it.
Hey Adam,
I seriously need to thank you for this video. I've struggled to stay motivated for so long, I've also had a diagnosis for hypothyroidism for pretty much all of my life and I never realized that this affected me art wise. I'm going to take everything you said and go get my thyroid under control so i stop being so hard on myself. Seriously THANK YOU
I started watching your vids and found myself listening a lot more than watching. I am one of those that don't like noise while i work but do enjoy music or some sound advice like your vids. Thanks for these.
a bit late maybe but I enjoy keeping Christopher Odd playing his games in the background while I work, especially the horror games playlists that he makes, games I will never have time to play and I can semi follow along while I work with either my painting or my motion. Hot tip is watch his play through of SOMA, brilliant game and great story. Deeply philosophical, if you let it.
I have developed a habit to listening to your videos while I paint :) It seems that I'm another person who can only be productive if I'm listening to something.
You just hit me in my pretty face and yelled at me to stop being so lazy and to take care of myself and exercise. Thanks! I've recently found a big purpose to keep on drawing and now thanks to you I have a purpose to stay healthy.
i tend to listen to your videos as i (try to) draw/paint as your voice is very calming, you expand my mind with the stuff you talk about and i can look at the screen now and again and be instantly inspired.
when i want to calm myself i listen to Peter draws (youtuber) and the way he talks about drawing makes me feel like its not about how good or bad the drawing i am making is but rather about how i feel and i believe when you have the right feeling towards something it does´nt matter if you are actually good at it.
I never comment on videos but you’re videos always come out at the right times. Yesterday I was really downing myself because I just couldn’t put something on paper and felt like I haven’t grown or progressed at all. I’ve just recently started my tattoo career and it’s been a challenge to balance my art vs tattoo art, Im worried that trying to mix them would have negative effect on them. You’re videos always help me just sit down and just draw for myself. Thank you deeply for the content you make for the struggling artists out there. Whenever I feel like I haven’t progressed I go through my portfolio to look at my work to show myself that I have, then look for something I haven’t tried and work on that. The relaxing music of Dark souls/Bloodborne/ Demons souls Is always a treat. Thank you again
I'm more then motivated to make my own artwork, I'm overflowing with artistic energy and ideas. This being said, I really don't know where my art style fits and after 4 ish years, i don't know if I'd really be a useful artist to the industry, I'm too slow and far too shy. I think I'm more emotionally burnt out then anything else, which is really making reassess my needs and future goals. That's when I turn to things that distract me... but this is a story as old as time lol
Exactly the same thoughts in my head 😣
do you have an Ig or sth? ^^
@@Alex-mx5fp My instagram is @northerndreampaint, I'm not sure what sth is but here is my artstation
@@meagenruttan4681 thanks it looks really cool :D
I m really thankful to have found your channel, and the fact that u too have the same "wandering" mind as i experience it its encouraging, i got diagnosticated with anxiety and sleep problems, mainly insomnia. And learned that anxiety is like a trap for an over active mind, that i can stop at the point of being too much or at the point it's not helping me solve the problem and just goes down the rabbit hole. Meditation really helps keep it in check but im still at the start of understanding it and practicing it.
Also a good youtube channel i like watching is the exploring series on SCP.
When I discovered you, I immediately started listening to your videos while painting. You know stuff. : D
I have hypothyroidism and only just THIS YEAR I realized that ALL of my hardships, struggling to lose weight, pulling my eyelashes, unable to be motivated or focused on anything other then video games, filling like there is something wrong with me, was all caused by that. The numerous times my parents pushed me to give more then I could. All the times I felt alone like I am the problem I am broken. This was eye-opening even tho people tell me that my condition is an excuse.
Honestly people are so conditioned that life is a struggle that when you are not achieving up to their expectations you want you to struggle more without actually thinking critically and finding the root of the problem.
Also podcasts are my salvation. I cannot function without someone constantly buzzing in my ear. r/Slash is particularly helpful but has very short videos. Just find your thing and you will see motivation will come to you. Look at art that inspires you, study other people's style or approach. Get your hear into the mindset that this is a time to do art. I can be as little as drawing a sphere or spending 2 minutes on a pose or as long as your heart desires but making yourself enjoy the time that you spend learning or developing your skills is a game changer. You have to learn how to make this the fun time rather then the exhausting, energy requiring task.
I love drawing when in voice chat with people that talk with each other. makes me feel like im a part of the group but without a need to involve myself in the convo.
otherwise i love listening to "triforce" of yogscast in BG. pretty fun guys
I have a lot of symptoms of an underactive thyroid but I've had a bunch of tests and there's nothing wrong with me. However, I need to get a hold of my habits and take charge of my actions before I continue worrying about that. We'll see after that.
Have you checked Dysautonomia (there are types other then just POTS which usually is quick to come up when it's googled; it's a variant of dysautonomia, not all types have the extreme dizziness and heart rate upon standing), it can have similar symptoms to issues with the thyroid. As well as chronic fatigue like symptoms sometimes. Often goes misdiagnosed, or not diagnosed at all, took me 7 years of tests to find out what it was. If you read up on it and it sounds like it may be the cause of your symptoms; and if you want to talk to someone who's familiar with going down that road feel free to hit me up.
@@alieshathompson6363 hey, cool, thank you.
Hi I have come across your channel and have to say the work that you do with art and videos are really inspirational and help full. One thing a have to admit is how true this subject is. This also made me realized why I like and ease into your content as I am working on a art piece or busy with studies. When I studied Art and Design at college the hours between different classes would be round about 45min and now that I have started listening mostly to your content it's like my body is reminded of how to work with in that time period again. I say this because every time I am working on something and then at the end of your video it's almost like I am reminded that it is time to take a brake now. Thank you for teaching me how to choose content in healthy way. Hope you have a wonderful year ahead.
feels like a wakeup call cause damn, I really might have to go and get checked... Ive been feeling extremely exhausted, too tired to do much besides just yawn and sit on my ass. ironically we have a decent diet at home, and Ive been working out too, but i end up nearly falling asleep after im done, just yawning and feeling my eyes super heavy. Maybe there really is something wrong physically. Great video Adam, wish i had some channels to recommend, but sadly I mainly listen you to hahaha! or music ;)
Often have issues with 'selecting music', not only with art but with other sort of work as well. Sometimes I spend too much time looking at which song to listen to on UA-cam and it has the same 'dopamine drive deficit' effect as watching short videos and seeing what to watch next. Funnily enough I was looking for music when I clicked on this video and now I managed to get some stuff done while listening to this, so that proves your point :). Longer podcast- like videos/audio I recommend are Planet Money on itunes, Extra Credits (their vids are short but they're good on autoplay), Animoot podcast here on YT, Sideways (a commentary channel about music) and Mentour Pilot, a channel who does interesting talks about aviation.
If anything, I've noticed I can work really well on your videos :) You have a nice and calm voice to listen to, and I don't have to actively pay much attention to follow along with your interesting stories at the same time, which enables me to focus on my own work! Thank you for your videos
Honestly, most of the time when I watch a video of yours that addresses such fundamental topics like this one, I keep asking myself why I didn't think of what you just said - in this case, balance.
Of course, if I - the artist - keep an unbalanced and irregular, maybe even resentful life, all the other parts of my life will suffer - and that includes my artwork.
Yet, I still didn't even get close to genuinely realizing this over the time I asked myself why all my motivation is gone. So, thanks. Thanks for giving all the amazing incentive, I'll head out right now and go for a jog so I can actually get some movement going LOL.
Much love to you man!
Haha, very cool!! And you are very welcome :)
i can't be more thankful for the algorithms for recommending your channel. Really great content, man.
Your videos are a god send. I'm not an artist. But most of your advise I find helpful for issues with focus in other careers as well. So thank you for that.
I just wanted to say thank you. You have been my painting companion for so long, my mind runs at a mile a minute. Your videos being longer and so calming really help me center myself to keep me painting. Truly thank you Adam
Thanks for this vid! I knocked out a majority of this commission I've been sitting on for a couple months now while listening. Another good art youtuber I like to listen to while drawing is trickywagon. She makes these long studio vlogs of her just going through the motions of setting up and preparing for comic cons and I find them both super relaxing and super educational.
Oh thank you, I haven’t heard of her yet, I’ll definitely check her out :)
Wow I’m glad I found you. I moved to Joshua Tree to find myself and found my artist. Started a business selling art now w pandemic forced to sell online. I do custom macrame and crystal art. I stay up all night and get nothing done just to be frustrated with life. Ughhh
Every podcast spoke to me. Thanks for making me feel as if I’m not a tortured soul but just have to get the logistics down and be the friend/observer to create in an organized way. I saw a creativity prayer that said “let this art not torture or make me an addict to my art. Can you speak to that?? So true. Thank you for sharing your soul
Adam, your videos have become one of my go-to channels for needing In-The-Groove audo during my artwork.
Only other channels I listen to consistently are Marco Bucci, and Drawfee; The group at Drawfee is much more casual/comedy, but their attitude towards drawing is extremely supportive and uplifting, even if you don't look at the video itself.
You hit the nail on the head with the short videos, Adam. They are a black hole of productivity. The Stuff You Should Know podcast and really any true crime podcasts are great (someone knows something from CBC radio is one that comes to mind), and instrumental artists like Emancipator and Bonobo are pretty amazing to get into the zone as well.
Gosh I love listening to your videos while I draw.
31:40 dont know how it works but i really want to start drawing every time i turn on any of Ahmed aldoori podcasts. when he is talking about art and stuff its just feels like a bit hypnotizing for me
and yes, ive always had some problems with productivity, but not motivation. and one thing i noticed is that the workplace is extremely important. i have a small table and ucomfortable chair + some people are always walking around, so with that condition my most productive time starts after 00.00, at the time of total silience. but once i had a period when i decided to rent a flat with a way better workplace and after that my productivity increased a lot, so i worked 3-8 hours a day easily
I've been listening to your channel and draftsmen mostly while I work and its so inspiring and keeps me in the zone :)
thanks for this video, one i didnt realize i do this until you described it - liking sorta 1 dimensional something i can play to fill in the background thats enjoyable, yet i dont have to constantly be finding the next video or thing.. 2, i do realize i like it when people list out the things they especially like.. like your own curated list.. currently im always asking artist for their favorite artists.. just cause im completely new to this world and i think im trying to either learn something specific or looking for the limits, or what would be considered, this domains’ cutting edge.
I can't thank you enough for your videos
I love the positive, holistic vibes and suggestions, thanks! I've been through what you're talking about re: struggling with health, balance of activity and motivation, and you're dead right.
Edit: stuff I listen to-
Hardcore History
Philosophize This
Myths & Legends
Thank you, you've definitely succeeded at being the most appreciable drawing companion, at least to me personally.
Your way of expression and string of thought is something that settles right within me and remains to resonate longer and more vigorously than the alternatives.
As always very motivational Adam. That llama caught me off guard, the kid in me found that hilarious for some reason. Love you all!
Love the Vaati Vidya shoutout!
It is super satisfying when you wake up minutes or even seconds before your alarm goes off
You yourself are always one of my go-to's when I'm working! Listening to your advice in this particular video made me realise that I already do most of these things, and you're right it definitely works. Others I enjoy, and you might too, are: Marco Bucci, Marc Brunet, Trent Kaniuga and FZDSCHOOL. These are channels definitely worth your time!
Oh hell yeah! Those are all on my favourites list for sure, I’m a huge fan of them - and thank you very kindly Eonaya :)
Hey Adam, just found this video, thanks a lot for everything in it. This was a great listen while painting! Your voice/background music makes it really easy to zone into what I'm working on.
Don't know if anyone has mentioned him, but another UA-camr I love listening to is Joseph Anderson. He does video game analyses/essays and his videos are long, well researched deep dives on games like The Witcher, Bioshock etc.
I've actually taken to listening to audiobooks on Audible while doing art. I get to read more and also have more focus while working, so it's been great!
Besides documentaries I listen to books on tape. Lots of books on youTube you can find by authors you like. Latest one I started to listen to was Jim Butchers book Storm Front, the first in the Dresden Files series. Love the wizard Harry Dresden!
I'm not a painter, but I'm a motion designer. Discovered your channel 2 days ago and I want to really appreciate you for this. I've been playing your videos back to back while I'm working and somehow it has really helped me to stay focused, listening to you talk. And your words of wisdom and encouragement has really been a source off motivation and I can honestly say that I feel different, motivated and encouraged by you. Thank you.
I really like listening to some guy called Adam Duff on youtube. His videos really help me keep motivated and his talks help me out a lot while I paint. Looking forward to the next one.
I love listening to Steven zapata when I draw, because sometimes when I don’t get the motivation to work, I turn on one of his videos and just by saying let’s start drawing for 10 minutes I’ll go on after for hours. Sometimes you just need a little help to move forward fast
The answer is easy one just needs to learn to live without a social life, without exercise, without relationships. It is unhealthy but art is a jealous mistress she does not tolerate you spending time with other things. I have the outmost respect for you to have such an organized life I am positive I would not survive a single day you have just described. If I don't draw for that 6 hours (or whatever) a day I get anxious and worried that I am loosing progress and loosing time. Of course I can't realistically do that daily ether so mos of the time I only manage to get done way less.
I love to listen to some audiobooks while drawing, it`s really great because they lasts for hours and you haven't distracted.
And by the way your channel is great, I am glad I found it!
Listening to videos like this really give me reassurance that I'm on the right path.
Wow
I wish I found you earlier. Your videos in the background inspire and inform me. Thank you.
I LOVE your videos. and am frequently amazed at the similarities between your art (painting/drawing) and my art (video game design)
Adam, thanks for being my painting companion! You've been an essential aid in getting these last couple of weeks work done :) I find listening to you and other things is most effective when I'm in a mostly processing / 'auto-pilot' workflow, but when i'm trying to be creative or solve a problem I need either silence or ambient music. Music with lyrics *always* distracts me.
As for suggestions for thing you can listen to, I recommend trying some table-top RPG 'actual play' sessions. There are some really big well-known ones out there like Critical Role, Acquisitions Incorporated, Adventure Zone, MCDM, and Roll Play. But there's loads of smaller creators making them too (myself included)! Find one you like and have a listen :)
I have also found that audiobooks make for a great painting companion
I listen to you while working, and it works very well so thanks!
26:00 that is precisely why I love binging your videos as I work so much, I can listen to you and still have my other screen filled with my references so I don't have to tab out of my document all the time.
I usually watch Drawfee! It has been awhile, but they're a bunch of goofy friends who sometimes make dumb stuff and sometimes make really cool pieces, but it is always a joy to hear them working... and it is something that I can watch from time to time, but they're working usually at the same pace as I am, so I don't have to watch every second.
La lloronaaaa!! Glad to see a legend from my country!