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. 

Stacii Lewis

I’m happy as a actor but sometimes you really just want to be regular and don’t have to worry about people might be using you or just around to gain something from you instead of just being around you genuinely Read More>>

Amy Guidry

I’m definitely happier as an artist. I’ve had ‘regular’ jobs in retail and even as a jewelry designer for a major manufacturing company, but that didn’t fulfill my passion. Even as a jewelry designer, there were too many limitations on my creativity. As an artist running my own business, I’m able to pursue any creative endeavor I choose. Read More>>

PiLO SHIN

To me, creating is like enduring nine days of struggle for one day of pure, incomparable bliss. That one day makes it all worth it. Read More>>

Misantropia Miscelanea

Actually, I’m a gardener and as a side job I find it realizing, because fulfills that need of be of use, and not as a tool, but as a care taker. Read More>>

Angel Kacin

I remember the first time I was called ‘just a hairdresser’. I was new to the industry and a mature woman said this sentence. I had no idea the stigma that was on the industry as an artist. I grew up with a Father who was self-employed and understood the artistry behind his flooring and tile business. Read More>>

Sarah Rockower

I’m absolutely happier as an actively creative person. I’ve worked regular full-time jobs and taken breaks from my own creative pursuits, never without a longing to make my own work. I remember surprising myself as a young adult, coming home from a full day of work and still feeling the pull to start my own project. Once I was immersed, it was hard to stop. Read More>>

Caitlin Gordon

Being an artist and creative is one of the most fulfilling things you can do for yourself — but I’d be lying if I said the doubt never crept in. There’s a common fear that turning your passion into a career kills the passion itself, and I’ve felt that. Read More>>

Karla Peters

I think about what it would be like to have a regular job more often than I’d like to admit. Just last year, in the middle of a business pivot from brand designer to creative director and consultant, I applied to be a cheesemonger at the cutest cheese shop in Minneapolis.  Read More>>

Danny Kensy

Awe man, I mean, as an artist I really never sleep. And for being an indie artist, every second is crucial to capture a moment, an idea, a fan, a show, etc. It never pays to be later in this industry. But, I love this job. I love the ‘on the go’ lifestyle and seeing new places, new fans, and new friends. Read More>>

Forty Two

Josh Zeldin says: There’s definitely been moments where I’ve thought about what it would be like to live a more “normal” life. One that stands out goes all the way back to the late ’90s. I actually tried to join the Army. At the time, I was in a band and constantly dealing with the reality of being a broke musician. Read More>>

Matt Woods

The simple answer to the question of happiness as an artist is one that I can answer unequivocally. Yes, I am absolutely happier working as an independent artist that I can imagine being under any other circumstance. That is not to say there aren’t times of frustration and doubt along the way. It’s a weird thing to tether your livelihood to your creative output. Read More>>

Luis Valle

Being an artist can be incredibly fulfilling, but it certainly has its ups and downs. I love what I do, but the reality is that being a professional artist involves a lot of hard work. Many people have the misconception that we simply sit around and create all day with ease. In truth, as an artist, you are essentially running your own business. Read More>>

Cyber Slumz

I’m so happy being a creative. Even though I’ll have my bouts of seasonal depression, I wouldn’t want it any other way. It’s funny enough someone yesterday was trying to convince me to get my CDL license. Read More>>