I’ve always been very focused on characters. I love drawing people and creatures. But it also means that I rarely draw backgrounds.

I made a goal to create an image with a very detailed background in order to stretch myself, and then to win a local art contest with that illustration.

Check, and check.

Here it is.

I’ve come to realize the obvious lately. If I only do the same thing I’ve always done (the things I’m good at and comfortable with), then I’ll never grow any better. I’ll just get good at doing the same thing. And I really do want to improve.

So my challenge for myself is to seek tons of opportunities to do new things, especially the things I’m afraid of. I want to make new kinds of illustrations, lead presentations on art and writing, run a Kickstarter, have my own booth at a convention, and beyond. And ever since making these goals for myself, I’ve been much more excited and invigorated about life.

So what are some goals you can make that will bring you through discomfort, but land you exactly where you’ve always dreamed of being?