The Inspiration
I have always had a passion for art and creating. Whether it was in art class, a sketchbook, a canvas, digitally, or even on a lined piece of paper, I have always loved to draw and create. For as long as I can remember it has been something I loved, and something I felt good at, and something I wanted to share with others. School was not my favorite. I knew that when I grew up, the last thing I wanted to do was work a 9 to 5. I felt like I had wasted so much time sitting in a dull room doing things I wasn't invested in. I always wanted a career in art and the freedom to be able to create what I wanted, although an art business of my own always seemed like an unimaginable idea. This idea wasn't encouraged in school, and I definitely didn't encourage or believe in myself. So, what changed?
The Motivation I went to a community college to get my associates degree in art (graduated in Dec. of 2019), and during that time I was reassured that my ability to create was something that could be valued and seen by others. I was commissioned to do a charcoal drawing for the college president, I had 2 artworks displayed in a juried art show, and during this time I was also hired to do art for an escape room. While these things did not ultimately lead me to start my business, it was really helpful in building my belief in myself. I was always worried that I was the only one who liked my art, this helped me to see that other people (who didn't personally know me) could like and value my art too. While this helped me to believe in my creative abilities, it in no way reassured me of my ability to start and run my own small business. If you look at small business stats, they are pretty discouraging.
I moved out after college, and I had the time to build an art business on the side of a part time job but could never fully commit. Whether it was situational, a lack of motivation, or still some serious self-doubt, I am not sure. There were so many moving parts, my first apartment, my first real job, being a wife, among lots of other things. I think the thought of adding anything else to the never-ending list seemed too overwhelming.
In September of 2021 we moved to a different state, I would no longer be working (except on my own business) and so many of my situations were changed. The first day my husband started his new job is the first day I started working full-time on my business. No reservations, fully committed. A fresh start, space from the past, and a new change of situations really motivated me. As I reflected on my time spent in my first apartment, I couldn't help but feel like I had wasted my time and opportunities. I refuse to feel that way again (or at least I want to be sure to do my part in not feeling that way).
The Support
None of it would have ever happened without my husband. He has always believed in me and encouraged me to follow my dreams and my passions, and to use my God given gifts for good. He pushes me forward and challenges me every day to take a chance on myself. If he didn't support me and love me there is no way I would be able to do this.
My family has also been so supportive, and they continuously encourage me to chase my dreams.
While I still have a lot more to learn, I have come very far in these 3 short months (and even further in the last 2 years). Thanks to each and every one of you for your love and support and for valuing my creations. It means more to me than you know.
With love in Christ,
Kara
コメント