Side Hustle vs. Full Time

There are some people who can put in their 40 hours a week at ok jobs and then go home to the activities they really enjoy. I imagine most of these individuals don't love what they do, but they recognize that this work funds their chance to devote time and energy elsewhere when they're off the clock. I'll admit, I tried to fit this model thinking it was what I was "supposed" to do, but I wasn't happy. Now with one year of doing my own thing on the books (yay, I made it!), I'd like to share a few thoughts about pursuing your passions full time. First and foremost, it's not easy, but if you plan, it can be totally worth it. Like many makers and handmade entrepreneurs, I started with a side hustle. I was working full time for someone else and making time in the evening and on weekends to do what energized me more. This allowed me to test out my ideas and get to know my future customers. I wasn't able to dedicate nearly as much time to this passion project as I wanted, but I was saving up money to be able to take the plunge into full time. So how do you know when the time is right to go all in with your dream? The answer is different for all of us, but there are some key considerations that will help you gauge your readiness to become your own boss.

Why Do You Love Being an Artist?

What sounds like a pretty straightforward question can actually be pretty hard to answer. Most of us have many reasons why we love what we do, be it photography, ceramics or painting! Some of you may feel like there was no other good choice; your Art is a large part of who you are! Truth is, the chance to pursue your passion can be meaningful for a wealth of intangible reasons.

• Creative challenges & victories on a daily basis.
• Joy & fulfillment in making something yourself.
• Connecting with people who also love what you love.
• Freedom to set your own goals, tasks & schedule.
• Sharing your aesthetic vision with the world.
• Building a following of supporters & collectors.