Do you ever wonder what life would have been like had you chosen a more standard path? Does everyone have these doubts sometimes? We wanted to find out and so we asked as many talented artists and creatives as we could and have shared highlights below.
Max Gagnon

Honestly, yes! I am very much happy as a creative and enjoy the work I do. I get to create what’s in my mind (or a client’s mind) and translate those ideas onto paper, a canvas, or a computer screen. Like any artist, I do have my off days where I may doubt myself and make me question, “is this piece ‘perfect’, or ‘good enough’?” But once I overcome those thoughts, and continue my process, I complete the piece! Then the amount of praise I get afterwards, whether it be in person or online, encourages me greatly. It helps keep my creative passion flowing and coming up with new ideas almost everyday. Read more>>
Christopher Magallanes

2024 and onward has been the busiest that I have been as an artist since I graduated college in 2021. Not only have I been producing my own work on stage and on film, but I have also been acting and taking part in other meaningful projects as well. The best part is, I’ve been getting paid for pretty much all of it. As of right now, it looks like 2025 will be another busy year. Read more>>
Khalil Miles

As a creative, being part of the entertainment industry is everything to me. It’s not just a career, it’s a calling. But it’s also a long road to earn the respect and trust of others. You have to prove your worth, show why you belong in the room. It’s challenging, no doubt—there are constant obstacles, rejections, and moments of doubt. But the rewards are worth it. For me, a regular 9-to-5 job was never an option. The idea of wearing a suit and tie and being stuck behind a desk never appealed to me. I’m someone who thrives on real, in-person connections, the vibe of being present and expressive. Being able to wear what I want, work on my own terms, and have a flexible schedule has always been a priority. Read more>>
Michael Ortiz

I’m always happiest whenever my art is the work, but I also want to dispel this notion that the only choices are between being an artist and having a “normal” job. I feel really grateful to be in a position where I get to use my skillset as an performer in every aspect of my work. I work for a tech company doing corporate role play simulations in VR. I still consider it my “day job” so to speak, but it’s acting, and it provides me with the funds and flexibility to pursue my personal creative endeavors. Read more>>
Corin Liall Douieb

Honestly I think about getting a regular job about five times a day. Usually when I’m doing normal things like food shopping and double checking the price olive oil, or not ordering take-out more than once a month out of sheer anxiety. But a big prevailing question to whether or not I should have a regular job mostly comes in those moments of purpose. Having a project to work on that I don’t have to dream up every morning is a beautiful smooth-brained gift. Sometimes I would love to be told what to create or dream up, and just do that, then clock off at 5pm and have a cup of tea and watch reality TV like a normal person. Read more>>
Maria Garcia

This is definitely something I think about often. But honestly, it has nothing to do with the happiness that being an artist brings me—I never doubt why I chose this path. In truth, art chose me. From a young age, everything I did was artistic in one way or another. The music my father played every single day, the arts and crafts classes my mom took us to, and the songs my brother and I started creating as teens—these experiences filled me with so much joy and light. Read more>>
As a business owner, I can confidently say I’m happier overall, but that doesn’t mean the journey has been without its challenges or moments of doubt. Owning a business brings a sense of purpose and autonomy that’s deeply fulfilling, but it also comes with huge responsibilities that can sometimes feel overwhelming. Read more>>