I set a goal (or made a resolution) at the start of the year to seriously practice my art; to work at it two hours daily. I can't believe that June is just around the corner already. For the most part, I've stuck to my goal. I've given myself one day of rest every week, and there have been a some days that I've skipped due to stress or other issues. But there have also been days where I've put in more than 2hr/day, and there was that whole week that I managed to practice 3hrs/day (couldn't repeat it though), so I think I'm doing pretty good thus far.
I've been working really hard at improving, but now I'm trying to find a balance between working hard at my art, and enjoying the fun stuff that re-energizes me and inspires me. Trying to take more time out for movies, games, and exercise, while still working at my art. I'm also trying to ease up on myself when creating; focusing more on experimentation and play, and less on studying anatomy and reference (although I know I still need to study that stuff).
So far, this has been a very rewarding experience for me. There have been times where I've even surprised myself at what I'm able to do. I'm looking forward to continuing my 2hrs/day practice throughout the rest of this year, and I already feel that I want to continue this practice in the years to come. Having a schedule like this has helped prevent me from slacking off. I've found that it can sometimes be hard for me to get started; but once I begin, it can be difficult for me to stop.
I've got a long ways to go yet, and I hope to keep at this.
Thank-you to everyone that has commented, faved, and awarded me with llamas. Also, thanks to all the artists on DA whose work inspires me. Thanks DA.