Saturday, August 18, 2012

Signs and Guidepost for the Creative Life

This is an interesting quote from Thomas Edison:  " Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work."

Being creative is one thing.

Then there are ongoing dialogues (read arguments) about  what to do with the things people create.  Do you create for yourself because you "have to"?  Do you create best under pressure because someone wants something from you?  How do you keep from being overrun by your work - literally?  Is your dream to make the shift from your 8 to 5 job and spend your days creating the things you love and having someone pay you for that effort?

If you've decided that you want to sell your work, (and those of us on etsy have made that decision) what are the best ways to go about doing that?  It's rare that we find anyone coming to look for us.

One opportunity might be to join forces with others so that you can cross promote.  You know - the 6 degrees of separation thing - we can exponentially increase our exposure by joining a team. My friends become aware of your gorgeous pottery or jewelry or knitwear.  Your friends learn about Gwen's soaps, Howard's bowls.  Team members create energy and events that benefit everyone on the team.

There's a momentum that builds when everyone contributes.  But it does take  effort from each member.   This is a great opportunity.  Help make it work!


2 comments:

Unknown said...

Becky you really nailed it this week! =D It is my dream to make the shift from the full-time office job to just work on my jewelry and my blog but I totally understand that it doesn't mean I'll get any more sleep. If anything, it'll result in less sleep, and definitely less money! I think some are just attracted to the glamour of being an artist but want someone else to put the legwork into it.

Community is SO important and is what helps get you through the creative blocks I think. Especially with a team like ours, the more you contribute, the more you will get out of it - maybe not just in exposure of your work but also in relationships and knowledge, you can't put a price on that!

Debi said...

Love this - so true ...