I’m so impatient by nature. In February I created my online photo gallery, in March I ran some banner ads on Google and Yahoo, and I figured by now I’d have a thriving fine art business. I’d be featured in magazine ar
ticles about pursuing one’s real passions. My work would be displayed in prominent places. I’d be the poster child for breaking free creatively. I mean, really, it’s MAY already. Three months since I started.
I know, I know… it sounds ridiculous even as I write it. I guess there’s always a little flicker of hope that I’ll get “discovered” and catapult to overnight fame. But I realize that the real pride in accomplishing something like this, is being able to look back at the effort, the blood sweat and tears that went into the success.
My good friend and life coach Bruno LoGreco advised me to be conscious of “following” my passion, versus “chasing” it. Very powerful concepts there. Subtle, too. I realize I’ve been chasing it. Which makes each disappointment a setback, a failure, instead of what it should be– scenery on the journey. No, I didn’t win the Frommers.com cover photo contest. Neither did a couple thousand other people who entered. And honestly, the winning photo really ROCKS. But man, I was so bummed. I felt like my big shot at fame, it could have been right there. Chasing… not following. I got “thanks but no thanks” responses from a few firms that purchase art for corporate clients. Crushed! Again, chasing, not following.
In a short period of time, I’ve allowed this pursuit to become about selling pictures, rather that the original pure concept of creating art for art’s sake, of capturing images that say “wow” to me– and follow where that goes. And so I’m getting back on the path, following the butterfly without trying to capture it. (except maybe on film…)
What keeps you creatively inspired? How do you handle “rejection” of something so personal as your artwork? I’m interested in thoughts from those who’ve followed their paths.
Creativity comes from within. It is your authentic stamp. When you express your authenticity and are not chasing, there is an endless flow of inspiration – its also the fountain of youth.
I often ask myself “What should I be doing?” when i loose my drive and motivation. The answer I always get back “Keep doing what you are doing” How I interpret that, continue to enlighten people and to teach them how to live a happy and fulfilled life.” How I choose to do that is also a creative expression and when I remember a flow of inspiration runs through me.
Rejection… humble comes to mind. Isn’t it egotistical to presume that everyone should like your art? Isn’t art a matter of taste, if it is then everyone ought to have a right to their personal opinion. True?
I didn’t feel rejected by the W Network when I didn’t become the “Next Expert.” I wasn’t the right person for the network at that time. It hasn’t stopped me from pursuing other avenues. And it definitely hasn’t stopped me from living my passion.
As always Bruno, you kick me right back into play 🙂 Great points about humility and rejection. I have so much to learn…
Pam,
This is so awesome! Follow your dreams definitely don’t chase. I did and I could never be happier!
Kudos!
Bobo
xoxo
Bobo,
You definitely are an inspiration to me. I love how you lead your life. Thanks for the encouragement.
Pam