The Power of 'Yet': Embracing Growth Mindset in Art Education

As a pet portrait artist based in Edwardsville, IL, and a passionate art educator, I've come to appreciate the incredible impact that one small word can have on a student's journey toward artistic mastery: "yet." It's a word that carries immense power and potential, and I believe it's one of the most valuable tools we can offer our art students.

Adding "Yet" to Student Statements:

When my art students express self-doubt, often saying they "can't draw" or "can't paint," I always encourage them to add one simple word to their statements: "yet." This small addition serves as a reminder that artistic skills develop over time and with practice. No one, not even the most accomplished artists, gets it right on the first try. Embracing the idea that they haven't mastered it "yet" shifts their perspective and opens the door to growth.

I've witnessed transformations in my students' mindsets when they realize that their current abilities are not fixed limitations but stepping stones to improvement. It's a beautiful thing to witness when they replace "I can't" with "I can't yet."

Embracing Being a Beginner:

Artistic growth is not a linear path; it's a journey filled with ups and downs, experimentation, and yes, making mistakes. I like to remind my students that it's perfectly okay to be a beginner, and in fact, it's necessary. We must be okay with "sucking" at something before we can get better.

When we embrace this idea and understand that being a beginner is part of the process, it frees us from the fear of failure. It encourages students to take risks, explore new techniques, and push their creative boundaries. The "yet" in this context serves as a beacon of hope, reminding them that progress is just around the corner.

Self-Talk and Personal Growth:

Creating a business involves doing many things for the first time and will bring up a lot of negative thoughts. We can’t control that automatic thought, but we can change our response to it. Whenever that nagging voice in my head tells me what a horrible job I've done, I respond with, "Of course, it was horrible. It's supposed to be in the beginning. But every time I do it, I get better." This self-talk helps me stay motivated and committed to my growth as an artist and entrepreneur.

Impact on My Daughter:

The power of "yet" extends beyond the classroom or studio. I've introduced this concept to my daughter, and now she even catches me when I use phrases that don't serve me. It's heartwarming to see her embrace challenges with resilience and optimism, knowing that she hasn't mastered everything "yet."

Consistency and Building a Growth Mindset:

Consistency is key when it comes to using "yet" to nurture a growth mindset. The more we practice adding this word to our thoughts and statements, the more natural it becomes. It's a simple but transformative practice that can benefit both students and artists at any level.

Recommended Resource - "The Big Life Journal":

If you're looking for a valuable resource to teach children about the power of a growth mindset, I highly recommend "The Big Life Journal." It provides engaging activities and prompts that encourage children to develop resilience, persistence, and a love for learning.

The word "yet" holds immense power in all aspects of our lives. It reminds us that mastery is a journey, not a destination and that being a beginner is not something to be ashamed of but celebrated. As artists and educators, let's consistently practice the art of "yet" and help our students unlock their full creative potential.

Remember, you haven't mastered it all "yet," but you're on your way.