Perfectionism can be sneaky—it feels like high standards, but really it’s fear wearing a mask.
But the truth is, creativity isn’t about control. It’s about expression. And expression can’t happen when you're trying to do it "right."
Letting go of control in your art can teach you how to let go in life.
Watercolor is a beautiful metaphor for releasing perfection—because it flows, blends, and surprises you.
Here are some exercises to get you started.
Start with Mindset Shifts & Reframes
“Done is better than perfect.”
“Creating is the practice—not the product.”
“Every ‘flawed’ piece is a stepping stone to my truest expression.”
Lead into a Gentle Ritual
Light a candle before you create. Tell yourself, “This is sacred time. There is no pressure. There is only presence.”
Burn or release something imperfect (a doodle, a poem, an old belief). Let it go as a symbol of freedom.
Try some Creative Warm-Ups (Low-Stakes)
“Ugly Art” Sessions: Set a timer for 10–15 minutes and try to make something bad on purpose. Scribble, mess up, don’t erase anything. It’s not about skill—it’s about freedom.
Create with your non-dominant hand: Removes control and precision, making it all about expression rather than result.
Blind Drawing: Don’t look at the paper while drawing. Tune into feeling, not outcome.
Journaling Prompts
“What am I really afraid will happen if I create something imperfect?”
— Get honest. Is it judgment, rejection, disappointment?
“Where did I learn that everything I create has to be perfect?”
— Explore your past, especially childhood and schooling.
“What does freedom in creating look and feel like for me?”
— Let yourself dream up a reality without the pressure.
Embodiment & Energy Work
Shake it out: Before you start creating, do a 2-minute body shake (arms, legs, hips) to loosen control energy.
Breathwork: Practice 5-10 deep belly breaths while repeating an affirmation like:
“I am safe to create imperfectly.”
“My worth is not tied to what I produce.”
Womb or sacral chakra meditations: Helps you reconnect with your feminine, creative, sensual energy that doesn’t strive—it flows.
Inner Child & Reparenting
Draw or paint with the mindset of a 5-year-old: Ask your inner child what she wants to make and follow her lead.
Write a letter to your inner child reassuring her that it’s okay to mess up, and she’s safe and loved no matter what.
Watercolor helped me release that grip. It reminded me that flow matters more than outcome. That joy lives in the process, not the product. If you're ready to create without pressure, my watercolor course is a gentle invitation to do just that. Join the waitlist and start where you are.