Women's Life Link Be Well, Be Happy, Be YOU!
If you want to make money, as well as be creative in your career, there are some things you should know. Though being creative has a multitude of wonderful benefits, it has been known to cause some problems for unsuspecting artists. No matter what age you are, making a living in a creative field is not only possible but can be one of the most rewarding steps anyone can take. That said, let’s take a look at a few challenges that creative entrepreneurs might face.
Lack of Confidence
First of all, you might find that constantly being judged on your talent and relevancy in the market can be a drain of confidence. Though this is just a part of the creative process, bad experiences or rejection can sting and even leave you not wanting to continue.
Recognizing weak areas and self-esteem issues right away will help you to avoid pitfalls as you move further into your creative career. If you are just starting out, give yourself some time to acclimate to a full-blown career by taking things slowly. Ask friends and family to give their opinions first, as they will likely have your best interest in mind.
Also, remember that even the best artists in the world occasionally have bouts of low self-esteem and question their validity. Just try to work through it, or even create from it, if you can.
Health & Body Issues
Certain types of creative work come with different health concerns. For instance, if you are a writer, you could develop things like carpal tunnel syndrome or eye strain from being on the computer for too long. If you are a musician, it is common to have hearing or ear symptoms like tinnitus or hearing loss. And, though there are steps for tinnitus prevention, many artists choose to ignore them. I believe awareness is the single most important thing you can have to prevent any type of injury or illness associated with your creative endeavors. It’s important to do whatever you can to look after your health while creating. Prioritize your health at all times, even when it seems impossible or difficult to do so.
Financial Troubles
Creatives that pursue independent careers can often suffer financially as they search for a niche and the right market. Before you can expect a large payoff for your talent, do know that there will be slow times when income is not consistent. For this reason, many artists choose to supplement their income with odd or seasonal jobs. There is no shame in doing what you have to in order to make ends meet. The important thing is that stick with what you love to do and are willing to be patient for your reward.
Lack of Business Savvy
It is tempting for artists to jump into a creative business with only their talent in tow. However, I recommend that everyone entering the business world do research and learn what it takes to create and sell art or creative services successfully. Taking a few courses in business and marketing couldn’t hurt either. Additionally, consider seeking an agent or someone to help you with administrative tasks.
If it all seems too overwhelming, take it slowly to give yourself some time to understand exactly what you’re getting yourself into. Your teachers or artist friends might be willing to help you get started as well.
