Little Steps and Big Ones

May 10, 2026

In one of my favourite TV series, 'All Creatures Great & Small', the vet, James Herriot asked one of the farmers why he didn't like walking on the city streets.

In his Yorkshire accent, the farmer replied, "It were all little steps and big 'uns, little steps and big 'uns. I just couldn't get going!"

Doesn't life feel like that sometimes?

As an artist pursuing a professional art career I can certainly relate!

Sometimes it can feel that we are never going to achieve our life time goals, or even our five year goals, for that matter.

I've been thinking about 'little steps'. I've even started a miniature series around that subject some years back  

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'Little Steps' 8x8" Mixed media on canvas, SOLD

-The journey can seem very long sometimes. The words "Are we there yet?" come to mind!

It can be hard to keep the pace up, encouragement and self believe can slowly drain away.

 

I have times like that.Too often actually.

Fortunately, my husband of 42 years believes in me 100%, even when I don't believe in myself. He is there on the sidelines cheering me on. Thank goodness! A good support team, art buddies and family are so important.

Feeling discouraged?

-Can I ask you a question??

When was the last time you sat down and had a look back over the past five years?

I know we are told not to look back but forward, but it can be very revealing to look back at where we have come from.

 

Yes.... it may seem that you are making little progress at times. The goal posts can seem along way away, but look at how far you have come!

My art is different now. Five years ago I could only dream of working in the art field. Now, as I look back I have been published in an International art book, as well as exhibiting in Las Vegas, Paris and Italy and received multiple international awards. These goals were once only dreams! 

At times progress seems slow.  Sales are down for us artists.  But, we have to keep plodding away.

Remember the old story of the tortoise and the hare? Slow and steady wins the race!

 

Now, I'm not saying that as artists we must never be critical of our art. We must, of course, assess our works and our progress from time to time.

Asking ourselves questions like; 'In what ways can I improve my style, techniques, business practice etc'.?

This is healthy.

But I find that knowing when to stop the self analysis and butt kicking is a bit of a problem :)

Don't be disappointed with your 'little steps'.

Out of little things, big things grow! As the bible says, 'Don't despise small beginnings".

 

Keep following your passion, nurture your dream, surround yourself with positive people and know that you do have something to contribute to the amazing world of art and creativity!!

Happy creating!

Ciao for now,