As a creative do you ever feel like you’re that ball that’s bouncing around in a racquetball court? You’ve got so many ideas that you’d like to implement, but ya just can’t focus or hone in on that one medium? How about this one. You’re a chameleon, one who tends to gravitate to everyone else’s dream except your own? I was all the above and more, and I’m here to tell you that you’ve got to stop, redirect, and own who YOU are!
What are your passions…YOUR dreams? Go out in the world and experience life. Are you stuck at home reading article after article on all the how-to’s of social media or taking 2-3 hour tours through Pinterest? I can certainly relate to that! Try clearing your mind by doing something different 🙂 Take a drive in the country, take a dance class, journal, sign up for a glassblowing class, hang with other creatives and meet new people who will inspire and encourage you!
I’m a girl who’s had years of experience as a creative/entrepreneur and very driven, but I didn’t really “land the plane” until I found myself divorced one day. It was a huge wakeup call and one I never imagined. Life can be so unpredictable.
After accepting a full-time office job, I walked away within 15 months, loaded up a trailer full of pottery, and headed to The World Trade Center at Dallas Market in Dallas, TX. I had my sights on running a home business, so that I could get home with my children again. Nothing was going to stop me!
Yep, when we are faced with adversity, we tend to rise to the challenge. Have you ever been there? It’s never comfortable, and most of us hate change, but there comes a time when we have to choose the road less traveled. I love the quote by Walt Disney…”All the adversity I’ve had in my life, all my troubles and obstacles, have strengthened me…. You may not realize it when it happens, but a kick in the teeth may be the best thing in the world for you.” Love that!
I’ve been a ceramic artist and owner of my own businesses for 15+ years. I’ve worked both retail and wholesale. I was blessed to be a licensed artist at one point. People would say that I reached a level of success as an artist that most don’t. Did I make mistakes along the way? Did I hit some roadblocks? Yes, of course, but you can never, never give up. One thing for certain, I’m completely humbled by the fact that my journey involved a walk of faith. Many a days I was on my knees… He opened and closed doors, but I just kept trusting Him. I never lost sight of that.
I’m sure you’re aware of this, but statistically speaking, half of all businesses won’t make it to the five-year mark, and only one third make it past their 10th anniversary. So that being said, I just feel I need to share with you some key factors that helped me catapult my own business as a creative/entrepreneur. Here ya go!
- First, get real clear on your direction and your why, because if you don’t you’ll waste a lot of time and money.
- As a creative/artist, choose the medium that not only brings you joy, but is marketable.
- Keep it simple. To begin choose only 2-3 products or services to market.
- You Must keep a calendar, so you can stay on task.
- Market the heck out of your product or service, and if you don’t know how then either find a mentor or hire someone.
- Network with like-minded and successful individuals in your field.
- And most importantly, grow some thick skin, cuz you’ll need it from all “the noise”.
Hugs,
~Carrie
Embrace your Imperfect Self. Inspire Others. Dare to b Different.
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