If you are struggling to make art but you don't really know why - analyze how your brain responds to the thought of drawing. If the response you feel is DREAD.... you are burnt out. Stop. Do Not Pass Go. Do Not Work on that Art Piece. You NEED to take a break. Yes it's mandatory. Here's the thing:

Thank you for your insightful advice. It’s really helpful. 🙏

You have to take a break because you run the risk of extending how long that burnout will last. It can go for YEARS. Putting pressure on yourself to "just do it" when your brain is fizzling doesn't force you to improve. It forces you to avoid the negative association you've formed with art.

This! This whole thing, very well said, and something I try my best to apply to myself. Thank you 🙏🏻

I finally have the art bug again after years. My problem is now just initiating the task. The doing is glorious, but it’s hard to use that as a metaphorical carrot.

I feel dread at the thought of doing anything that requires any amount of effort if it isn't new and flashy and exciting. My brain wants me to run away from any important task. I have to force myself so my life doesn't fall apart because of inaction.

i can absolutely confirm that the burnout will last for years, speaking from experience, and it SUCKS. i still hold onto the hope that the spark will come back because i miss drawing stuff - for myself, for friends - because i was pushing myself too hard and feeling like my skills plateaued

That is always, so I stopped, permanently.

Any tips for someone who has to draw for a living and literally /can't/ afford to stop or take a break? I've been burnt out for years and no matter what I do, it never leaves. Even a day or two break is just nonstop guilt/clients upset.