I just wrapped a new YouTube video… and wow, did I spend a ridiculous amount of time saying “uhmmm…” Like—Olympic-level “uhmmm.” Gold medal. World record. I was basically the Michael Phelps of hesitation noises. And as I listened back, I caught myself thinking: “Man… I don’t sound polished.” “I sound a little scattered.” “Shouldn’t I be smoother by now?” But then I asked myself the same question I’ve asked a hundred times when watching my favorite creators: “Why do I enjoy this person’s channel?” “What is it about their content that keeps me coming back?” And the answer hit me—again: 👉 Because they’re real. 👉 They’re down-to-earth. 👉 They feel approachable, human, and unedited in all the right ways. So if that’s what draws me in, why am I being so hard on myself for not sounding like a polished network anchor? Truth is, creators aren’t followed because they’re flawless. They’re followed because they’re themselves. So I’m choosing to embrace the “uhmms.” The imperfect pacing. The occasional mental loading screen. Because authenticity beats polish every time—and honestly, I’d rather sound like me than sound like a script. If you’re creating anything—videos, art, writing, music—here’s your friendly nudge: Don’t wait until you sound perfect. Just show up as you. That’s the magic people connect with. And if you want to see the very video that inspired this little moment of self-reflection, here it is: 🎥 The Best Digital Pen Displays for Artists (2025) — This One Is a MONSTER!! https://youtu.be/3ihADWvRS7Y

https://youtu.be/3ihADWvRS7Y?si=VnqWLUzCa_BYjSfA

If you’ve got a sci-fi fan, movie geek, or creature-design nerd in your life… this is the perfect holiday gift. I just released my 11×17 full-color Xynamorph fan art print, inspired by the hissing, spitting, acid-for-blood nightmare that first crawled aboard the Nostromo in the original Alien movie. This piece is purely fan art and created as a transformative tribute under fair use — just one illustrator’s love letter to one of the greatest creatures in cinematic history. 🎨 As a freelance illustrator, cartoonist, and caricature artist, every purchase directly supports my art and helps me keep creating new work. Supporting independent artists really does make a difference. 🎁 Holiday Bonus: Send me a PM saying you’d like to purchase a print, and I’ll give you an exclusive $10.00 discount as a thank-you. Perfect for: • Sci-fi fans • Horror lovers • Movie collectors • Fellow geeks • Anyone who loves bold, unique art Thanks for supporting the arts — and for supporting creators who put their heart into every line and every brush stroke. 💙 Xynamorph Fan Art Poster – 11×17 Full-Color Illustration geekmans-store.myshopify.com