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.

Heaven Clavier

First things first , I love working for myself. I can’t imagine what life would be like without being a creative. I’ve been into the performing arts and craft industry since I was a young child. I always knew that I’d put my mark on something that I needed to be hands on with. I’m definitely happier with being a creative than having a regular job because I get to work for myself , my job goes according to my own values and what I believe in. By being a creative I get to make magic every time I open a computer screen, log onto my phone, turn on a microphone. Being a creative allows me to tap into my full potential and be powerful. Read More>>

Tom Fisk

Happiness as an artist is complex and ever-evolving. It’s not a static state but rather a journey shaped by exploration, expression, and purpose. For me, this journey is uniquely shaped by the balance between my two careers: as a photographer and videographer on weekends and a data scientist in healthcare during the week. While these paths may seem worlds apart, they are deeply interconnected, constantly influencing and enriching one another. Read More>>

Aya Hage

I am definitely happier on the artistic path I’ve been on for the past couple years. Admittedly the “what if” of having a regular job resurfaces in my thoughts every now and again, since I do have a bachelor’s degree and had a few 9 to 5-type jobs that require a college degree. Read More>>

Blake Coker

In my personal journey I have experienced many conflicting thoughts on being an artist. I have worked several different jobs in pursuit of the “full time artist” gig. Starting in retail, bar staff, Paint and sip instructor, to full time graphic designer and illustrator. Read More>>

Den Baurin

I believe happiness is unique for each person. For me, as an artist, it is connected to the ability to share my emotions and thoughts through music. Creating a song or performing on stage are the moments that truly make me happy because I see how my music resonates with people’s hearts. Read More>>

Angie Guo

I think about this question often, especially during emotional highs and lows. I work as a tattoo artist, a field that allows me the freedom to be creative while completing meaningful work. Read More>>

Evan Edwards

Yes, I am very happy as an artist and creative. It’s a core part of who I am. I’ve thought about having a regular job before, especially during challenging projects when things feel difficult or unpredictable. The last time I had that thought, I was working late on a project with a deadline approaching. It was late and quiet except for the pencil on my paper, and I felt the weight of self-doubt creeping in. Read More>>

Jasmine Scott aka JCS

It was weird, when I collectively allowed – when I stepped back and didn’t work myself to death, things flowed to me. Yes, I have always wondered if I should get a real job, but every time I did I felt trapped. I also have systemic lupus, it wasn’t realistic to even consider. Read More>>

Jessie Neumaier

I am definitely much happier pursuing a creative career rather than being stuck in something that I am not really interested in. From the beginning, I always knew I wanted to be immersed in a creative environment within my career, but I didn’t know exactly how to go about it. That’s when I discovered my love for photography and film. Read More>>