My goal was to draw traditional portraits faster and, of course better. I originally started drawing them every Monday, but eventually swapped it for Tuesday. Mondays were chaotic so Tuesday just made more sense for me.  Pick a day and make it part of your routine, I preferred waking up early to do them so I don’t let the day activities weigh me down.

To keep myself on track, I bought a cute little frog timer so I could visibly see the countdown and feel the rush to finish on time. At first, the timer gave me anxiety. I was constantly feeling like I didn’t have enough time, 30 minutes felt like 10 minutes. But don’t give up! Sometimes, putting yourself in an uncomfortable position is what helps you grow.

I’m not sure exactly when I stopped using the timer but it was probably after four or five months? But eventually, I just didn’t need it. My drawings were naturally finishing within the 30 minute window and I no longer felt rushed. So, no more loud beeps in my ear! In case you decide to challenge yourself, make sure your timer sounds pleasant. Some of these timers may be cute but they all tend to have that generic beep sound. MAYBE, just maybe it will actually encourage you to get faster so you can avoid the beep of doom, whatever works for your brain.