Lack of time. The one big hurdle that is easy to set up and difficult to dismantle. Once you put it out there it tends to stop all discussion. You will have to defend your statement and few people would choose to argue with you. End of discussion.

What an opportunity missed though. Imagine saying: "I have the time. Now !" My bet is that you will then find the time and get something done. What you say is true, usually is true ... to you. So tell yourself what you need to hear.

As we enter holiday season and things get frenetic we so easily throw out the time excuse. The truth is that there is enough time. We simply have to commit to making a change in attitude. So how about making time this December for painting? Or your other creative work? Set aside time. Make something happen. After all you would not want to be illogical would you?

These days every artist has to be an entrepreneur too. This requires learning new skills and above all knowing yourself. Some of the old myths still haunt artists and writers. For instance you need a gallery or publisher to make it. Or unless you paint conceptual art you have nothing to say.

These burdens hold artists back. Often this leads to frustration. You do not take that leap of faith because if the whole world says it is so then it must be true. Or you attach so much weight to the opinion of one critic. Even if there are a hundred fans you single out the one who tries to deflate your dreams. 

I will always remember one elderly artist saying to me: "As an artist you need to make your own waves." 

By taking responsibility for your career. By ignoring the critics who contribute nothing, except by dragging others down with their bitterness. By remembering the priceless joy you feel doing your art. That is how to make your own waves.

These 15 Tips and questions might help you develop your vision of success. Please add any tips or suggestions that have been helpful to you.