Overcoming self-doubt, embracing imperfection, and finding clarity on your creative path. Sponsor the Podcast;  https://buymeacoffee.com/artbylizross Episode Summary In this warm, uplifting conversation, Liz Ross welcomes gentle creative guide Jo McCarthy to explore the real journey of being an artist and creative entrepreneur. Together, they discuss overcoming self-doubt, embracing imperfection, and building confidence in your creative business. This episode is a nurturing space for creative souls, offering gentle encouragement, practical advice, and soulful support for anyone seeking authenticity and growth in their creative path. Guest Introduction Jo Mcarthy Jo is a gentle creative guide based in Wales, known for supporting makers, artists, and creatives in finding clarity and confidence. With a background in education, business, and creative mentoring, Jo brings a holistic, nurturing approach to helping creative souls thrive. Key Topics & Quotes Timestamp Topic Key Quote 00:00 Introduction to Jo and her creative journey “I was always a creative child, and now my greatest joy is supporting other artists and makers to find clarity in their work.” 06:00 Creating for wellbeing and mental health “Creating is so important for our mental health and wellbeing—it doesn’t have to be perfect to be powerful.” 07:00 Social media, self-perception, and the ‘Looking Glass Self’ “Our sense of self is shaped by how we think others see us, especially in the age of social media.” 09:00 Permission to create imperfectly and overcome fear “If you allow your creativity to be intuitive and imperfect, you give yourself and others permission to begin.” 13:00 Gardening analogies for creative business and personal growth “Real growth starts in the soil—know your roots before you reach for results.” 18:00 The privilege of supporting creatives one-to-one “It’s a privilege to draw people out and give them the space to be truly seen and heard.” 23:00 Gentle, actionable marketing tips for artists “Marketing doesn’t have to feel overwhelming—sometimes it’s as simple as making sure your name appears on your website.” 39:00 Accepting overthinking and building it into your process “Don’t fight overthinking—build it into your creative process and make it work for you.” 44:00 Working with personal cycles, seasons, and respecting your capacity “Pay attention to your own rhythms and seasons, and let your creative practice adapt to what you need.” 56:00 Investing in yourself and pursuing creativity for wellbeing “Investing in your creativity is an act of self-care and responsibility for your own wellbeing.” 57:00 Final reflections: giving yourself time, attention, and permission to create “Give yourself the time and attention you deserve—your creative journey matters.”   Resources Mentioned Connected Artist Club with Alice Sheridan https://www.soulrocketstudio.com/connected-interest Jo’s Website https://jomccarthy.com & Newsletter https://jo-mccarthy.myflodesk.com/the-garden-shed Stay Connected with Me!  Website: https://www.artbylizross.com/ Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/artbylizross Support the podcast + creative work. Instagram (Podcast): https://www.instagram.com/empoweringtheartistwithinpodcast Join our creative community on Telegram for creative support and gentle guidance. https://t.me/+9EW5_m6DdSU5YTc0 Download: Take five minutes for yourself today! Get your free creativity guide and start building confidence, embracing imperfection, and finding joy in your creative journey. Coming Soon! Subscribe for creative support, nurturing words, and heartfelt encouragement. **https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/818485/114166279194019425/share** Buy Me a Coffee: Support the podcast + creative work. https://buymeacoffee.com/artbylizross Music Credit: Feeling Good by Doug Maxwell