For over 10 years I've collected articles about art and creating good art.  Here is one that is worth repeating.

Get the basic tools; understand your product, how colors relate to each other, designing compositions, how to create depth

Learn, apply, learn, apply and repeat (never stop learning)

Paint a lot and consistently; don't take it all too serious - there will be failures; so tinker, think and try again

If a particular workshop really jibes for you; if there is something there you enjoy then repeat it for awhile

If a method comes easily, it is still viable, and probably your thing!  Stay with it!

If you haven't found your thing; then try various methods; experimenting is part of the process

Paint with purpose to learn! Document your learning!

Learn to read and critique your own work

Recognize weaknesses and improve on them

Recognize strengths and capitalize on them

Every Instructor, every Artist has their own vision; have your own vision then grow with it

There is no such thing as one method or one approach with art.  Be creative for the opportunity to relax, express and be innovative