Contemplation

I have an artist friend who I sometimes envy. I envy her accomplishments, her travels, (she is single, and has no kids) and her connections with other artists all over the world. She speaks at conferences about creativity, she holds workshops in Italy, she sells her art at high-end galleries. She also creates on-line videos about inspiration, creativity, and how to do the type of art she does. She has written two books featuring her artwork and her poetry.

Although doing just one of these things might not be enough to make a living as an artist, doing them all makes it lucrative. She is making a living through her art. So it seems like a life to be envious of.

This friend? She does not exist. The life I described, is the life I envision for myself.

What's stopping me from living this life? I am living it, but on a smaller scale. (for now, anyway)

I don't travel much (except for family vacations), I teach local workshops, and I sell my art at local coffee shops and galleries. I speak at local elementary schools about my life as an artist. I have a local TV program about art, that features local artists. I was recently written up in the local newspaper (the cover story!) On top of all this, I am raising two boys who are now teenagers. Many of my artist friends (and other friends, too) tell me that I accomplish more in one day than they do in an entire week. Perhaps, but what do I have to show for it? I certainly don't make enough money with my art to support myself.

Why?

Partially, it's because I'm not clear about my goals, so although I do a lot of things, I am too spread out so I am unable to do any of these things very well.
Partially, it's because I want to be here with my kids, at least for a few more years, and traveling the world would make it difficult to be home for dinner!

But, in a few short years, I can do all those things. I just need to begin preparing myself so that when the time is right, I will be ready. So, I am enlisting some help. I am researching some programs to help me figure out how to focus my efforts and propel myself towards my goals, whatever they may be.

I'll keep you posted.