Embracing the Mess: How Playing, Layering, and Failing Can Lead to Our True Self

Embracing the Mess: How Playing, Layering, and Failing Can Lead to Our True Self

There’s a lesson I’ve learned through painting that extends far beyond the studio: The more I play, the more I discover my true self.

It’s not about perfection. It’s about the messy strokes, the unexpected splashes, and the moments where I stop trying to control every detail and simply let the paint take over. That’s where the freedom comes in, where I can feel my authentic self emerging—raw, unfiltered, and real. And it’s something I’ve come to believe applies to life, too.

You see, my process in the studio is a lot like the way I approach life. Layer by layer, stroke by stroke, we build and grow. In art, just like in life, the more we practice, the more we learn, and the more we grow in confidence. It’s a process of continuous discovery.

I’ve had to practice this boldness time and time again. Not just with my art, but in trusting my instincts and letting go of doubt in every part of my life. It’s easy to want everything to be perfect and to have it all figured out from the start, but I’ve come to realise that it’s the moments when I let go—when I allow myself to fail—that I find the most growth. It’s in the moments of uncertainty and play where I discover the real me.

And I think that’s the beauty of it all. The mess. The mistakes. The layers that don’t always turn out the way you expect. It’s all part of the process. Every time I dare to be bold, to take risks, to fail, I get closer to who I am meant to be. And I believe that you can, too.

So, if you’re reading this and feeling unsure, remember that it’s okay to play. It’s okay to get messy. It’s okay to not have everything figured out. In fact, those are often the moments where the magic happens. Just keep layering. Keep experimenting. Keep playing. Trust the process. Your true self is there, waiting to emerge, one layer at a time.

With love,
Rebecca x

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