Episode 101: How to Set Yourself Up For 2026 Without the Overwhelm

7 October 2025 | Paint Rest Repeat Podcast for Artists

How to Set Yourself Up For 2026 Without the Overwhelm

Feeling behind before the year’s even begun? You’re not alone — but it doesn’t have to be that way. In this episode, I share a gentle, practical approach to planning ahead now, so you can step into 2026 with clarity, confidence and your energy intact. No hustle. No pressure. Just small, smart steps that protect your joy and creative rhythm.

Let's dive in!

Here for the links referenced in the episode?

Empowered 2026 Live Masterclass: https://www.permissiontopaint.co/empowered2026

The Permission to Paint 2026 Planner — Your creative companion for planning a joyful and productive year. Get yours here!

Episode 101: Listen using the player below, or click on your favourite listening platform to subscribe and listen there:

Why You Should Start Planning Now — Not in January

If you’ve ever promised yourself that this January you’ll finally get organised, only to feel flustered and behind by week two… you’re not alone. Artists wear so many hats (hello marketer/accountant/cheer squad!) and it’s so easy to leave planning till the last minute.

But here's the thing: starting the year in reaction mode isn't fun — and it’s not sustainable.

When you plan ahead now — even just a little — you’re setting Future You up to begin 2026 with calm, confidence and clarity.

The Real Reason Planning Feels Hard

It’s not just about “being organised.” Often the real issue is:

• Lack of forward planning → decision fatigue

• Decision fatigue → burnout

• Burnout → misalignment, stuckness, loss of joy

This is the cycle so many artists get caught in — and we don’t want that for you. You chose art for the joy of it. So let’s protect that joy.

My 4-Step Mini Planning Process

You don’t need a giant spreadsheet or 18 tabs open. Just carve out 20-ish minutes with a cuppa and try this:

1. Reflect Before You Plan

Ask yourself:

• What worked this year?

• What didn’t?

• What did I learn?

This isn’t about failure — it’s about data and direction. Give yourself credit for what you achieved, and take notes on what you’d do differently.

2. Make a Few Key Shifts

Think:

• What do I want more of?

• What needs to go?

• What am I saying yes to — and what does that mean I’m saying no to?

Planning is prioritising. Let it be empowering.

3. Choose 2–3 Focus Areas for the Rest of This Year

Not 12. Just a couple of things that will genuinely help you glide into 2026.

Ideas:

• Refresh your portfolio or online shop

• Set up your email list growth plan

• Schedule Jan socials or newsletter drafts

4. Map Out 2026 — Artist Style

Use post-its. Colour-code. Make it fun. Plot out big launches, key rest times, holidays and creative projects using a wall planner (or our Permission to Paint 2026 Planner — get it here!)

Want Help Putting This Into Practice?

I’ve created a special mini workshop just for you: Empowered 2026

It’s a 60-minute live online masterclass for artists already selling or ready to start! Leave with a clear vision, a one-page year map, and your next best steps to grow sales—without overwhelm. For just $9, you’ll get:

✅ A crystal-clear vision for your art and business in 2026

✅ Specific next steps to move your art business forward right away

✅ A printable Reflection Guide + One-Page Year Map

✅ Walk away with your next best steps — mapped, clear, and doable!

Spots are limited — grab yours here: https://www.permissiontopaint.co/empowered2026

If you’re ready for more personalised support in building your art business, there are plenty of ways we can work together — from self-paced courses and practical resources to memberships and masterminds. Reach out here.

That’s it for this episode. I’m so glad we could share this time together. Remember — every small step you take brings you closer to the artist you’re becoming.

Ros x