Using our own voices

Here's an interview from EmptyEasel about a mixed media artist. Lots of good ideas to think about but the thing that stood out for me was about being influenced by other artists. We have a new idea or see a work we really like and then study the techniques and the new media. Then the real work starts with making it our own and being focused on what we want to say. We see inspiration everywhere we look and who can say what will spark a new direction. But always it must be our own voice and vision as well as the all important focus and concentration.

I admire artists who can focus on their work every day and not be sidetracked by duties, responsibilities and the ever present needs of others. How do they do it?