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I’ve been trying to do small diy things like jewelry making because I thought it would help me relax and plus I wanted a new hobby. However, I am getting frustrated like instead of enjoying it, I am looking at what I made and thinking it doesn’t look good.

I'm sorry to hear you're feeling this way. It's completely normal to be a bit critical of your own work, especially when you're just starting out with a new hobby. Remember, every artist and craftsman starts somewhere, and it's perfectly okay for your first pieces not to be perfect. The beauty of DIY and crafting is in the process and the personal growth that comes with it. Maybe try to focus on the joy and relaxation the activity brings you, rather than the final product. And who knows? With time and practice, you might start creating pieces you're really proud of. Don't be too hard on yourself; every piece you create is a step forward in your creative journey.

I know I know but I can't help it. I'll sit down to make something and I'm already angry before I even start because I know it's probably not going to turn out how I pictured it. It's like the hobby is making my stress worse which is downright awful. What's wrong with me, right.

Hey, there's absolutely nothing wrong with you. Feeling this way just shows that you care deeply about what you're creating and that you have a vision for what you want to achieve. It's incredibly common to feel this kind of frustration when there's a gap between what we envision and what we're able to produce, especially in the early stages of learning a new skill. It might help to shift your focus a bit. Instead of aiming for perfection or a specific outcome, try to immerse yourself in the process and the act of creating itself. Celebrate the small victories and improvements, no matter how tiny they might seem. Also, consider setting aside the pressure of the end result. Sometimes, allowing yourself to experiment without a specific goal in mind can lead to unexpected discoveries and joy. Remember, it's totally okay to take a step back if a hobby starts to feel more like a source of stress than relaxation. There's a chance that with a little break, or perhaps trying a different approach, you might find your way back to enjoying it. Be kind to yourself and allow your creativity to flow freely, without judgment. You're doing just fine.

The thing is I had tried to just enjoy the process but my brain won't let me. It's so annoying I literally cannot look at something I made without judging it and being disappointed. I do this with everything, not just the jewelry. I pretty much can never just be satisfied with anything I do and it's exhausting. I don't know why I'm like this. Is this OCD or what?

It sounds like you're going through a really tough time with this, and I'm sorry to hear how much it's affecting you. The feelings you're describing—being unable to stop judging your work or feeling constantly dissatisfied—can be incredibly draining. While I can't diagnose or precisely pinpoint what you're experiencing, it's important to acknowledge that many people struggle with self-criticism and high expectations for themselves, which can sometimes be linked to anxiety or perfectionist tendencies. These feelings don't necessarily mean you have OCD, but they do indicate that you're dealing with a lot of pressure, whether it's coming from within or from external expectations. It might be helpful to talk to someone who can offer professional guidance, such as a therapist or counselor. They can provide you with tools and strategies to manage these feelings, help you understand why you might be feeling this way, and work with you to develop a healthier relationship with your hobbies and tasks. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. It's about taking steps to improve your quality of life and finding ways to enjoy the things you love without undue stress. You deserve to find satisfaction and joy in your creations and activities, and there's support out there to help you reach that point.

I thought about therapy before but I like to talk myself out of it. It can't be that serious. I feel like other people have actual problems and I'm just here stressed about jewelry and these stuff. It feels dramatic to go to therapy over something like this. Also, therapy ain't cheap.

It's really common to feel like your problems aren't "serious enough" for therapy, especially when they're compared to what others might be going through. But your feelings and struggles are valid, no matter how they might seem in comparison to someone else's. Everyone deserves support for what they're dealing with, and there's no threshold of seriousness you have to cross to justify seeking help. What you're feeling is impacting your enjoyment of life and your self-perception—that alone is enough. Therapy can be an investment, and it's true that it isn't always cheap. However, there are more accessible options available now than ever before. Some therapists offer sliding scale fees based on income, and there are also online platforms that can be more affordable than traditional in-person therapy. Some community centers, universities, or online services offer free or low-cost counseling services as well. The benefit of therapy isn't just about solving a problem; it's also about learning more about yourself, developing coping strategies for when you're feeling overwhelmed, and improving your overall mental well-being. It's about giving yourself the space to explore your thoughts and feelings in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. You're not being dramatic by wanting to feel better about yourself and your hobbies. Everyone deserves to find peace and satisfaction in their lives, and reaching out for help is a positive step towards that.

Yeah I get that. I guess I just never thought my stuff was worth that kind of attention. It seems like I've just been pushing through it for so long that it kind of became normal.

It's incredibly easy for challenging feelings and self-criticism to become a "normal" part of our day-to-day life, especially when they creep up on us gradually. Recognizing that what you've been feeling doesn't have to be your normal is a significant insight. It shows a lot of self-awareness and the first steps toward wanting something better for yourself. Deciding that your well-being is worth attention and consideration is a powerful realization. It's important to remember that your experiences and feelings are valid, not because they reach a certain threshold of severity, but simply because they affect your happiness and satisfaction with life. You deserve to feel good about yourself and your hobbies, to enjoy your creativity without harsh judgment. Taking even small steps towards addressing how you feel can make a big difference. Whether it's talking to someone close about how you've been feeling, exploring self-help resources, or considering therapy when you're ready, each step is a move towards a more fulfilling and gentler way of experiencing life. Remember, seeking a happier, more contented life is a worthy and important goal. You're taking important steps just by acknowledging how you're feeling and considering your options. That takes courage and strength.