Rooting Your Identity before what you do
In my conversation with Cheryl, who is taking a sabbatical break, she shares her struggles and aspirations with her current creative endeavors. The discussion touched upon various aspects of her journey, offering valuable insights into the importance of recognizing one's strengths and building a solid foundation for both personal growth and branding needs as an artist.
Cheryl expressed her hesitation to share her art too, citing concerns about low engagement on social media platforms. However, she also finds focus on what she enjoys, emphasizing that as long as she found fulfillment in her work, it was a gain.
As we explored the idea of selling artwork on platforms like Etsy, we recognized the need to understand SEO to stand out in a crowded marketplace. We mentioned that branding was something needed to work on if eventually, this is an area she wants to continue pursuing.
However, like many who want to dream up but feel overwhelmed by the task. Questions like who will be the ideal customer and how do we convey to convert into income as a creative.
Just a few days back I came across this title, “Real Artists Don’t Starve” I just started reading a few pages, inspiring me to become a thriving artist. This specific passage spoke to my seasons and the choices I’ve made to start SLC:
Sometimes in life, the script we’re given no longer fits the story we want to live. We realized the rules we were following were assigned by someone who did not have our best interests in mind. And now, we must do something about it. Whether we changed our minds or realized the path we were on wasn’t leading where we thought, we all have a choice about who we become. We can go in the direction of what is expected of us. Or, we can enter a world of possibility and reimagine our future.
The Real Artists Don’t Starve by Jeff Goins
Jumping back to the conversation with Cheryl, it sounds like her strength lay in her productivity and sense of responsibility, stemming from her past work experiences. I suggested that she could use these strengths to her advantage too. Often we focus on what we cannot do over what we actually are already doing well. This is why I love Strengthsfinder, an assessment designed to help individuals identify and understand their natural talents and strengths. Each person may have a unique combination of strengths, and the key is to recognize and leverage these strengths to achieve personal and professional success.
Life is a constant chase for a balance between strengths and weaknesses, alike to work and life. Why is work less good compared to life? Can we actually create a homogenous characteristic that energizes our being? Can we deny that there are those who are genuinely passionate about both their work and life?
On my recent trip with my girlfriend, who boasts nearly two decades of experience in the fashion industry. Despite frequent travel between countries, she manages to allocate quality time for friends and family. When I questioned if she ever felt exhausted, she responded, "I've moved beyond seeking work-life balance. I'm actively harmonizing both!"
Don't you admire her dedication to both her personal life and her career? It's inspiring to observe someone who approaches life as if they are in complete control of it. She is one wholesome person in both spheres.
Ain’t that what many of us are missing? When we take sides, we struggle as if it is not meant to be. What if we weigh the options, and decides to simplify what feeds our souls? If trying to work on the weaknesses is not working out, then maybe consider prioritizing time and effort in areas that align with your strengths and interests.
Relating back to my journey as an artist:
From my perspective, my journey as an artist has seen steady growth. If it weren't for strategic planning, I might have remained just a digital artist trying to sell art by going viral. I’ve shared some tips on how I placed SLC strategically as it has proven to be valuable in keeping me on the right course. I may not necessarily land at where I want to be but I’ve been rewarded for living the life I need.
You see, I didn't initially start as an artist, and I've come to realize that becoming a full-time artist may not be my ultimate goal. While I've improved my painting skills, I find greater joy in writing. Although I may still feel reserved in front of a camera, I have a deep passion for engaging in meaningful conversations. When I'm in a room with people, my mind tends to wander, but there's a clear mindmap within me of the potential I see.
Procreate Studio may be generating some income, but I'm also a part-time florist, striving to make ends meet outside of the digital screen. I believe there's always a glimmer of light at the end of any tunnel, how we navigate through challenging times shapes the person we aspire to become.
My heart at SLC remains strong, if not stronger. That is to create a safe space for women to slow down and reconnect to their innate creativity. A place you can come to while you deal with the inner work.
Inner work is a process of self-discovery, aiming to gain a deeper understanding of oneself and how we respond to life's challenges. It's about becoming more conscious of our thought processes, addressing our emotions healthily, and boosting our self-assurance to live a life that resonates with our true selves.
Let me close with a verse from 2 Corinthians 4:16-18,
Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
Much of our progress is hidden beneath the surface. By positioning yourself in the areas of nourishing waters, your roots will extend deep, sourcing essential minerals and nutrients that contribute to your well-being and the fruits you’ll bear.
It is safe to say, that I am who I am, crystal clear. Even if the title of an artist is stripped away, I’ll still live a fulfilling life.
To add, when we know God, we will be transformed to love and live differently. That's because we have Christ living in and through us. We will learn His voice, and we will walk in the steps He calls. We will become reflectors of His glory.
No matter how small the change may appear externally, it is the inner work that truly matters. There will be a noticeable change, at times even daily and frequently over the years. Occasionally, we may regress into old habits, but with discipline and a willing heart that embraces the love of Christ for His people, we can become better.
If this blog resonates with you, feel free to share it. I’m also here if you need a friend. ᵔ ᵕ ᵔ
