We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Chyann Garrick a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Chyann, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Are you happy as a creative professional? Do you sometimes wonder what it would be like to work for someone else?

Being a creative artist fills my life with boundless pleasure, joy, and a profound sense of love and passion. The act of creating allows me to express the depths of my imagination and emotions, bringing a unique vitality to my existence. Unlike a regular job, which may feel routine and predictable, the artistic journey is a constant exploration, an ever-evolving adventure that captivates my spirit. The fulfillment derived from turning abstract ideas into tangible expressions of art is unparalleled, and the joy of sharing these creations with others amplifies the sense of purpose in my life. The creative process is a source of perpetual inspiration, and the freedom it provides is a testament to the incomparable joy that comes with embracing a path guided by passion and artistic expression. I have never held a 9-5 position and don’t plan on changing that in the foreseeable future.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Becoming an actor involved a dedicated journey into the realms of discipline and craft. When I first started out I was a model. Commercial acting sort of fell into my lap and I was good at it. A suggestion from my former agent that I am so glad I was proactive about. As an actor you typically undergo training, attend auditions, and continuously refine their skills to break into the competitive industry. I read online the odds of booking a role are about 1 in 30 sometimes more. Between 2019-2021 I booked 50 projects so I had massive career success and then in 2022 the Ad agencies went on strike and I booked 1. Similarly to this year the writer’s guild striked and then SAG-AFTRA striked so I was only booked on 3 projects. You need true grit to really endure this industry because your success can look wildly different from year to year. Which is also why I hustle on the side.

I am a growth coach and serial entrepreneur. I love a challenge and constantly take on new ventures. I understand the importance of discipline and honing one’s craft. My services go beyond conventional coaching by delving into the intricacies of both mind and business models. I help individuals cultivate a mindset conducive to growth and guide them in constructing robust business strategies. What sets me apart is my background as an artist, navigating the challenges of creativity day in and day out. This unique perspective allows me to offer holistic support, combining artistic passion with strategic thinking to propel clients toward their goals. I also have a huge business opportunity on the table that I am so excited about because of the impact it will have on many people. It’s in the beginning phases so the details have yet to come.

I’m most proud of my accomplishments to date and those that have yet to come. To be able to look back at my life and have no regrets is a beautiful feeling. I’ve had the privilege of being a commissioned artist via outlets such as poetry, speaking, modeling, acting, hand modeling, influencing and more. I have also had the privilege of working as a freelancer or contractor negotiating my own wages. This has all given me the confidence and wide arrange of skill sets needed to be an innovative and dynamic leader. I’m super excited for what’s coming next!

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

Understanding your worth as a creative is pivotal; it’s about recognizing the unique skills, perspectives, and dedication you bring to your craft. Charging accordingly is not just a business decision but a validation of your expertise. When I first started my entrepreneurial journey I didn’t have the confidence to charge accordingly. Furthermore, I didn’t have the belief that I deserved to make as much as I wanted to charge. Imposter syndrome and self-doubt often lurked in the creative process for me , attempting to undermine my confidence. However, after a lot of inner work I was able to resist these internal challenges. Your creativity has intrinsic value, and by pricing your work appropriately, you not only sustain yourself but contribute to the overall recognition of the artistic field. Artists deserve to be paid their value and too often people will try to pay you less or not pay you at all. Of course, when you’re starting out free-bies can be great to build your portfolio but then there needs to come a time when your 10,000 mastery hours are billed accordingly. Embrace your worth unapologetically, for it is the bedrock upon which your creative endeavors thrive.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

Non-creatives often find it challenging to grasp the intricate journey of a creative individual. The creative process is an abstract realm, fueled by emotions, intuition, and an innate desire for expression. Many creatives grapple with mental health issues, as their heightened sensitivity and deep introspection can lead to emotional turbulence. The traditional work setting, with its rigid structures and conventional expectations, often proves stifling for these individuals. The need for freedom, flexibility, and a conducive environment for self-expression becomes paramount. In embracing artistry and individuality, creatives find a refuge where their unique perspectives can flourish, allowing them to navigate the intricacies of their creative journey with authenticity and purpose.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://abidebychy.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abide.by.chy/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chygarrick/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chyann-garrick-a113a4171/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCo66ajew62_MuEWxgr2KRvw
• Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@abide.by.chy?_t=8hKa4A2Kkw1&_r=1