With nearly 20 years of experience spanning art, engineering, programming, and construction, and having witnessed countless professionals excel in their fields, I can confidently affirm that remarkable results are never achieved instantly. There are no shortcuts to success. True achievement requires unwavering dedication and consistent effort over time. Embrace actionable strategies for self-improvement, prioritize personal growth over comparison, and commit to the ongoing journey of learning and development.

🧵 1/ Art is a personal journey, not a public competition
For a long time, I’ve been observing and listening to artists, especially in online communities. One common theme that keeps coming up is comparison. Artists often ask, "Why is someone who came after me ranked higher?" or "Why is my rank lower despite the quality of my art?" But here’s the truth: Art is a deeply personal journey. The only person you need to compete with is yourself. Every artist's path is unique, and you are solely responsible for your progress. Constant comparison and the quest for validation not only detract from the essence of being an artist but, if dwelled upon, can also pull you away from your creative core.

🧵 2/ Healthy competition is about self-improvement, not comparing with others
Some might question why rankings or competitive structures exist. These systems aren’t designed to limit anyone but to create a framework that helps you better understand your own abilities. Without a way to evaluate and reflect, it’s difficult to truly recognize your strengths and weaknesses. Instead of being frustrated by someone else's position, think about how healthy competition can push you to uncover your hidden talents.

🧵 3/ Accountability and self-awareness are the keys to success
If you're not making progress, instead of blaming others or the system, take a moment to be honest with yourself. The issue might stem from your practice routine or lack of focus. Self-awareness and recognizing your weaknesses are crucial for growth. It's important to remember that no one is obligated to support you. If someone gives even a simple like to your art, it means they appreciate it. Demanding validation or expecting others to forcefully endorse your work is unprofessional. Feedback and competition are valuable tools for identifying blind spots and refining your skills, but the drive to improve must come from within.

🧵 4/ Continuous learning and practice are the foundation of success
No artist has ever succeeded on pure talent alone. What separates a successful artist from the rest is consistent practice and dedication. Your progress might feel slow at times, but without a commitment to daily learning and improvement, success will remain elusive. Don’t fixate on immediate results—focus on incremental growth.

Throughout my years in this challenging field, I have endured countless difficulties without ever complaining or seeking support from others. I have faced moments of discouragement, but I have always persisted on the path I envisioned. There are countless methods to unlock and showcase your diverse talents and art to the public. Embrace the journey, and remember that perseverance and self-reliance are key to revealing your full potential.

🧵 5/ Focus on the process, not just the outcome
Many artists get caught up in chasing final results rather than enjoying the creative journey. This mindset can take away from the joy of creating. Art is a long and challenging path where each failure or obstacle is part of the experience. Every step is an opportunity for learning and growth. Shift your focus from outcomes to the process of creation.

🧵 6/ Take full responsibility for your growth
You can only become a successful artist when you take full responsibility for your successes and failures. No one else can change your path—only you can. By owning your journey, you empower yourself to make the necessary changes and embrace your potential for growth.

🧵 7/ Authenticity is your greatest strength
Ultimately, success in art comes from being authentic. Imitating others will never take you far. Focus on developing your own artistic identity and create work that speaks from your inner voice. Art that comes from within you will always be more meaningful and powerful than imitation.

✨ Conclusion
Structured competition and feedback are crucial tools to help you discover and refine your hidden talents. Rather than comparing yourself to others, concentrate on your inner growth. With consistent practice, accountability, and a commitment to authenticity, anyone can become a successful artist. The path to success starts from within.