Pursuing a creative or artistic career can certainly be fulfilling, but it’s far from certain. Over the years, we’ve heard about the struggles from thousands of artists and creatives – it’s incredibly challenging and it can be tempting to wonder – what if you hadn’t pursued this path. We asked artists and creatives from across the community if they’ve every had those doubts themselves.

Cody Maple

I’m very happy with what I do. Being a creative allows you an amount of mental and physical freedom that is hard to beat. Even prior to COVID, artists and designers for the most part had the ability to work remotely and form their own schedules. This is big if you’re like me and like to travel—you can work from anywhere, anytime. As long as you get your work done on time and do it well, you’re usually good to go. Read more>>

Matt Silverberg

I’m incredibly happy with being a musician. It’s been a lot of hard work and it hasn’t always been fun, but I wouldn’t want to do anything else. While it would be wonderful to have stable income, the thought of working a “regular job” just doesn’t vibe with me. I love having the flexible schedule so I can continue to work on my music. Read more>>

Dylan Jacobson

Am I happy as an artist or creative? That’s an incredibly difficult to answer. I’m someone who’s always grappled with depression and accepting a normal life. It’s hard to know if my happiness would be more or less in a regular job. This question is something I’ve chewed on so much that I’ve started writing a regular newsletter discussing struggles and successes as a creative person. (https://brimstonegoodfight.substack.com/) Sure, there are moments where I romanticize more regular jobs because they offer something simpler, easier insurance, or just something different. Read more>>

Keith Michael

All life is art and our sole purpose on earth is to create beauty in our own unique way. Aren’t we all artists? One person’s art may be painting, another dancing, and another mothering. There’s an art to every job from janitor to doctor. How much are you putting in? And is it done with intention? If we stop to think about what we are doing and we pay attention to the moment, we will find the creation. Find the art. I’m so happy to be an artist. Art is life. Read more>>

Kalie Berin

I love being a photographer. I am so grateful that I’ve been able to run my own successful business and hope I’m still doing this years from now. I’ve been on the other side before- I was a teacher for 11 years before quitting in 2021 to go full-time as a photographer- and I definitely don’t want to go back to that (or any other 9-5, to be honest). That being said, there are definitely challenging days when I think it would be nice to have the guaranteed, stable income a 9-5 provides. Read more>>

Andrew Tripp

As an artist, at this point in my life I don’t think I could say I am happy. But I would say that I am excited. I’m currently working full time at a dog daycare and boarding facility, and having recently moved into a living space with an office I can and will eventually dedicate to my art, I have definitely not had the time in recent weeks to do the art that makes me as an Artist truly happy. As a person though? I’m the happiest I have ever been in my entire life; with the people I have around me and the opportunities I have on the horizon I am to grateful to feel that excitement. Read more>>

Taylor Smith

I am beyond happy as an artist, it’s not always an easy path but it is certainly a fulfilling one. Over the years I have had quite a few regular jobs, I’ve seen that side of life and I didn’t dig it. I knew all i wanted to do was make music all the time. So many people have to go and do a job they aren’t passionate about, I feel eternally blessed that I have found what my hands love to do, I always want to put 110% of my energy into my music. Read more>>

Liz Walker

I’ve had regular jobs. I’ve shipped robot parts, sold soap, been an office manager and a nanny, worked at an art museum, a salon, and an acupuncture clinic. Unfortunately, full-time work isn’t very viable for me for health reasons. Read more>>

Tia Nichols

Am I happy as an artist? Yes, more than no! I often find myself challenged with creative block, feeling overwhelmed with balancing my work life, personal life, and time set aside for my practice. I work two jobs and volunteer with several non-profit 501c3 organizations and find myself up at strange hours trying to make a mark on a canvas or further my passion for alchemy. Read more>>

Kira Knowlton

I am absolutely floored in most of my waking moments that this is how I am able to provide for myself. It’s not very often I think of working a “normal” job and if so it’s for the perks of benefits of course! Most of the time I am living in the present, there are definitely detriments to living this way, in terms of future planning. However having immense gratitude constantly for what I am able to achieve through the craft of tattooing keeps me humble, happy, and satiated! Read more>>

Justis Olivarez

Happiness is such a funny feeling to me. I feel like there are parameters of being happy, defined as this pinnacle of joy and bliss which creates overwhelming emotion through meaningful positivity. Sorry, I am just sent reeling when I am asked about my current position and state of mind, as I have never worked a “regular” job. Being in the food and beverage industry since 2009, I have known no other way of life other than late nights and early mornings. However, this could be defined as the new normal. Read more>>

Elizabeth Eleanor Davis

I never felt completely comfortable in the corporate or retail world. I felt like I never really belonged. I could do the jobs alright, sometimes better than my peers, and I liked helping people, but I got bored easily, burned out, ground down, and was often over looked or misunderstood. As an artist, I am free to be my own boss, work on the things I am passionate about, and frame my own “company culture” of who I am on my own terms. Read more>>

Victor Policheri

Happy is a difficult measure to use as an artist I think. I knew very early on that I wanted to pursue an artistic career, and at times it has made me incredibly happy, and others absolutely dismal. It is a roller coaster ride. It often depends on where you are at with your work. Read more>>

Shunqella Hambrick

I am happy as a creator. I love making things because it’s my peace and when needed it comes in handy. And I’m able to make my own gifts and gifts for others which make it personal. I don’t have to wonder what it would be like to have a regular job because I’ve had regular jobs before and doing those times I was on some one else time not my owns. Read more>>

Amy Lewis

Absolutely! Being a freelance makeup artist and esthetician allows me to find great fulfillment in enhancing others’ beauty and confidence. The freedom to create my own schedule and adapt it as needed is truly empowering. However, during quieter moments, I can’t help but wonder about the stability and balance that a regular 9-5 job could offer. It’s a gentle reminder that finding equilibrium in my work flow is something I aspire to achieve. Nonetheless, the joy and fulfillment I experience in my profession make it all worthwhile. Read more>>

Abi Wheeler

I am beyond grateful to have had more discipline in the early years to actually live now and lead others to a more exciting life rather than withering away in an overly micromanaged or dusty corporate cubicle! Read more>>

Edie Karras

I truly don’t think I could survive without creative outlets. I do work full time at a meaningful job, and have a wife, son, house, animals – all great BUT- my photography, and now my picture book projects are all my own. It’s so satisfying to have an endeavor that’s completely under your control; even if the end results often surprise you. Read more>>

Lily Piper

Is being happy as an artist a real thing? Happiness comes in waves. I feel happy when I am in good company, or when my work is flowing. But sometimes, even when I am creating, there is a flood of negative emotions that consumes me. I am most vulnerable when I am my most prolific. I question my work and myself in those moments. I love my work, but the work itself isn’t enough to make me happy. Happiness is a funny, elusive thing. Read more>>

Anna Christina

I absolutely love what I do! As a versatile Music Artist, being able to network and work with so many different people, create, and then share with the world is pretty awesome! I’d say that I’m pretty content as a Music Artist! I do have a regular job as well. Being an independent Music Artist does cost a little so having a few side hustles helps with that. Hopefully soon I’ll be able to transition into a full-time Music Artist! Read more>>

RJ Lucci

That is a great question because I’ve asked myself over the years what does happiness mean to me. What makes me happy. And the answer I found was that living my truth, being honest with myself and treating others with kindness creates my happiness. As an artist I am the most happy I have ever been. It all came together working on our current TV Pilot ‘The Shipment’. Read more>>

Mathilde Guerrero

As an artist and creative, I can confidently say that I am happy with my chosen path. The ability to have a profound impact on “regular” crowds of people through my art brings me immense joy. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that my work has the power to touch people’s lives and evoke emotions. Read more>>

Pierce Williams

I couldn’t be happier to be able to make a living as an artist/entertainer. When I was in elementary school I started noticing other students and teachers applaud me for my creativity in classes and I really took pride in that gift. I’ve always excelled more in creative/artistic pursuits more than the opposite. I’ve just been very lucky to have parents that have always supported me in pursuing my passions. Read more>>

Xueting Li

Being an artist in the animation industry brings me immense joy. However, I must admit that my job can be challenging at times. There are moments when it feels like a torturous process as I strive to meet deadlines and align my work with the entire production workflow. Balancing artistry and technology becomes crucial, and seeking creative inspiration within specific timeframes can be demanding. Read more>>

Emma Crutcher

I am happier than I’ve ever been as a full-time creative. I worked a full-time job in education for several years before deciding that I owed myself the time to explore the ideas that kept me awake at night. All I wanted to do was make beautiful and functional pieces out of discarded materials. Once I was finally able to quit my job and do this full time, I have enjoyed every minute of it and I have never doubted my decision. I knew in my gut and in my heart that this is is what I am meant to do. Read more>>

Neil Brookshire

For me, a life in the arts is very satisfying. But yes, I often wonder what regular work would afford me. Depending on the day, those things change. Ultimately, though, I have found a certain freedom of spirit and mind in pursuing the arts that I think I’ll always gravitate towards. So even if I get a regular job from here on, creativity will be an integral part of my life. Read more>>

Ryan Champion

Choosing the life of a creative is not easy. I often wonder if life would be easier if I just had a regular 9-5. Coming up with concepts, and being consistent while still trying to earn a living is really difficult. sometimes I find myself slipping into depression wondering when Ill have the big break. I’d be lying if I said that I was happy with the choice I’ve made in pursuing my dream, but the thought of working a job that I hate is what keeps me motivated. That, and my son. Read more>>

Raven Wynd

I’m very happy as a full time creative. It takes a bit of energy, and optimism.
I’m booked solid for about a year, so vacations are kind of a joke. It’s still good to be able to be your own boss, within the limits of also being a service person. To assume that people are only showing up for your work, is a bit of a beginner mistake. Read more>>

Melanie Beaver

I love to create, but I also love to work. I feel that my work continues to fuel my creativity and many times I am inspired by an unexpected sight or event. I am very happy as an artist, but also as a person with a bit of a unique job. My job as a wind turbine technician, as well as past jobs in mechanical fields inspire much of my work. I also spend a lot of time traveling for work, which continues to inspire me as an artist. Read more>>

Benjamin Long

What is happy, really? Every life has its ups and downs, moments of tragedy and bliss. Career-wise, unless you’re one of the lucky few that gets discovered early, it’s a struggle. But success doesn’t guarantee overall happiness either. Read more>>

Janette Castro

I am beyond happy being a cake decorator. I feel true passion when I decorate a cake or when I come up with a design for a customer. It makes me so happy when I get to be a part of their memories. Read more>>

Teri Underhill

I feel very happy as a creative. It can be tough some days, sometimes I am not always creative, sometimes creating anything (music, production, rehearsal) is frustrating but it’s all a part of the process to becoming the best version of myself with my passion. There is no other job in the world I’d rather be doing than creating. I have never given myself a second option growing up because I am that passionate about creating. Read more>>

Kao Wonder

This is a question I hear frequently.. .Sure there are many trails and tribulations that people don’t see. Being a self funded Independent Artist is very hard work and dedication to your craft…which is time consuming and at times emotionally/mentally draining. You have your dark times, and you have your light times…but I will say this ..There is NO feeling like being on stage delivering your heart and soul to others and resonating with them. Read more>>

Faerie Compean

I am very happy as an artist and creative! I view life as being all about creation. That doesn’t just include traditional art but also things like expression, cooking, fashion, building beautiful relationships and connections, etc. Creating what is good & meant for you. I will forever be a creative person as it’s a huge part of my life! Read more>>

Karina N. Cruz Ortiz

This is a really good question, and I ask myself this almost every week. I don’t think I could be as fulfilled as I am right now doing anything else, so in that sense, I couldn’t be happier. However, it’s not as black-and-white as it may seem. Turning something that brings you joy into your day job is a tough task. Sometimes it’s really tiring, and you just want to take a breather and separate yourself from it. Read more>>

Beatriz Hernandez

I am happy with what i love to do. Having a regular job on the other hand, I do have one. I am a full time employee but I would also love to have more full time as an artist. It is difficult to manage both at the same time because for me, when I want to create art and make something out of it like clothing, stickers, etc. that’s money I have to spend from my own paychecks or savings. Sometimes it’s enough and there a few times where it isn’t. So it’s a constant wave of struggles and stress. Read more>>

Isabelle Jamois

I am happy as an artist, but happiness means different things to different people. Music is a grounding force in my life, but it sure shakes things up. I have to travel a lot and unlike a “regular” profession, I honestly don’t know what my life will look like in 1 year, let alone 5 or 10. My life as an artist is centered around believing everything will work out, the right connections will be made, and God will guide me to the right place. It takes a lot of faith. Read more>>

Maurissa Ashby-Faulkner

I am so happy with my job! I love what I do and I love that I get to spend so much time with my family when I’m not working. Sometimes the work involves them—when we’re modeling as a family or creating content together—and that’s fun too! I’ve worked a number of “regular” jobs but have always craved the freedom that a job like this brings. Read more>>

Beth Duke

I feel incredibly fortunate to earn a living with my writing. It’s an honor I don’t take lightly! Far more valuable than any monetary reward, though, is the privilege of connecting to readers through my work. Meeting someone who loved my books and knowing they had impact and value in their lives—that’s the best. I’ve held plenty of traditional jobs in my life. I never think about returning to one, and hope I can continue this writing journey. Read more>>

Jared Palmer

Firstly. Am I Happy.? Is any artist truly happy? Isnt the reason we make art because there is something inside of us that needs to come out? As I grow older, happiness and tranquility seem almost like a rumor I heard once and believed at one time but has since faded, and is now unrecognizable. I find things in lofe to make myself smile. If you dont have a clear plan of what you want. And you do not know absolutely every single step that it is going to take to get you there. Then you are planning a life of mysery. Read more>>

Michal Szostak

Being an artist is more of a philosophy or an approach than a job. Artistry is one of three aspects that characterize an artist; the other two are virtuosity (craftmanship) and creativity. Only a smooth combination of all these components shapes a true artist. From this perspective, being an artist it is a regular job because at least virtuosity must be kept and maintained via regular practice; every shortage in this area will have a negative impact on artist’s artistry. Read more>>

Cheyanna Lavon Zubas

Absolutely! Acting is something I have had a burning passion for since my first theater role as Goldilocks in Goldilocks and the Three Bears when I was just five years old. I still remember the crowd of people watching as I acted, sang and embraced the stage in costumes made by my loving grandmother. Read more>>

Margi Griebling-Haigh

Overall, I AM happy being a creative artist — a classical composer, to be specific. However, my creative urges do not stop with music. I find myself happiest creating, well, just ANYTHING. Apart from composing, I do graphic design work (mostly for programs and publicity for musical events); I create individual greeting holiday cards for every member of my family; Read more>>

Aishwarya (Aaish) Oli

See, first things first, I feel that the word “Artist or Art” itself has been underrated for centuries. It is a field of work not much appreciated by most of the people in this world. (at least this is what I have felt on a personal note, although I can definitely be wrong here) But! They know what it is & how powerful impact & influence it can leave on many of us, despite they take this word very easy, as to what remains for the future is not guaranteed & promised (this is what most of the peoples perception or concern in this world goes like). Read more>>