What to Do When You Feel Discouraged as a Makeup Artist
- Erin
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
Blog by Juliza Ortiz
Every makeup artist, no matter their experience level, has moments of discouragement. Slow booking periods, comparison on social media, creative blocks, or even one tough client can make you question your talent or direction. If you’re feeling discouraged, know this first: it’s normal, and it doesn’t mean you’re failing.
Discouragement is part of growth.
1. Step Back and Revisit Your “Why”
When things feel heavy, reconnect with why you started. Was it the love of transformation, creativity, helping people feel confident, or building something of your own? Your “why” doesn’t disappear just because motivation dips,it’s still there, waiting to ground you again.
Sometimes, remembering your purpose brings clarity when confidence feels shaky.
2. Stop Comparing Your Journey
Social media shows highlights, not reality. Comparing your behind-the-scenes to someone else’s curated feed can drain your confidence quickly. Every artist grows at a different pace, and success looks different for everyone.
Focus on progress, not perfection. Where you are right now is part of your journey. Not the end of it.
3. Invest in Education and Skill Building
One of the most effective ways to break through discouragement is education. Learning new techniques, refining fundamentals, or gaining a deeper understanding of the industry can reignite passion and confidence. Growth creates momentum, and momentum rebuilds belief.
Even small improvements can remind you how capable you truly are.
4. Stay Connected to Community
Isolation makes discouragement louder. Connecting with other artists, whether in a studio, class, or creative space, reminds you that you’re not alone. Conversations, feedback, and shared experiences can be incredibly grounding.
Supportive communities create encouragement, accountability, and inspiration.
5. Give Yourself Grace
Burnout and discouragement often go hand in hand. Rest is not quitting,it’s resetting. Taking a pause to recharge mentally and creatively can help you return with clarity and renewed energy.
Being kind to yourself is just as important as being dedicated to your craft.
6. Remember: Discouragement Is Temporary
Feelings pass, skills grow, and confidence returns. What you’re building takes time. Every artist you admire has experienced doubt—it just wasn’t the chapter you saw.
If you’re still showing up, still learning, and still trying, you’re already doing more than you think.
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