Episode 53: 3 Tips for Finding Direction On Your Creative Path
My Creative Journey Story
My creative journey begins during my college days and continues post-graduation. Back then, a desire to create was always present, but I didn’t really know how creativity fit into my day to day. I couldn't have ever imagined that I would eventually become a working artist and creating art for a living.
In college, I pursued an Art Major, a decision I later dropped due to imposter syndrome and a lack of confidence. I questioned my abilities and whether I belonged in the world of art. Instead, I veered towards an Intercultural Studies major with a Minor in Art, still nurturing that creative spark.
Fast forward to a pivotal moment in 2015, where my role as an aide to an elementary school art teacher reignited my dormant creative energy. Teaching art to kids unlocked a flood of inspiration, rekindling a desire to create. I started dabbling in watercolors and sketching in my free moments in the evening. That year, a dear friend and respected artist, Lynn Richards, encouraged me to participate in an art show. Despite self-doubt, I ventured into it, opening a door to a newfound passion.
In 2019, armed with an iPad and a revived artistic spirit, I found my signature style. Polka dots, distinctive color usage, and a unique sketching technique became my signature style. Yet, my creative journey wasn't a straight line; it was an exploration, a dance between different mediums, and a transition from watercolors to eventually digital art.
Then came the turning point: discovering the world of wholesaling from Kimberly Kuniko of Lacelit, a game-changer that allowed me to scale my art business. However, I still lacked a long-term vision and was instead focusing on short-term goals and incremental steps.
In 2022, I began to understand the importance of having a clear vision for both my desired lifestyle and financial goals. This realization paved the way for deliberate choices that aligned with my aspirations and allowed me to make bold changes in my business. These changes and steps included getting a studio and hiring someone, so that I could pursue running a membership and host The Tillage Podcast. Meanwhile, I am also creating more artwork to start to license.
One crucial lesson I learned was the significance of committing to one revenue stream at a time. Building a strong foundation in wholesaling before venturing into other avenues allowed me to establish a good foundation. It's easy to be enticed by shiny objects, but mastery often comes from focused dedication.
Guided by my "why" - my core motivations and passions - I learned to filter opportunities through the lens of my purpose. This discernment became my compass, leading me toward goals and projects that aligned with my creative journey.
As you venture on your creative journey, remember that it's not just about the art you create, but the path you forge. Embrace your story, stay curious, and let your passions light the way.
3 Tips for Creating Clarity and Direction
Know Your Vision: Understand what lifestyle and financial goals you aspire to. This clarity shapes your decisions and ensures alignment with your dreams.
Build One Thing Strong: Focus on mastering one revenue stream before expanding. This approach fosters depth and expertise, setting a sturdy foundation for future growth.
Stay Guided by Your Why: Embrace your motivations and core values. Let them be the guiding force that helps you make intentional choices and navigate the creative landscape.
Key Takeaways:
Having a clear understanding of where you want to go will help guide your creative journey and keep you from ending up somewhere you didn’t want to be or creating a business you don’t really love.
Consider your desired business model. Do you want a studio? Do you plan to hire or work with a team? Do you want to have multiple revenue streams? Do you want to be able to travel freely and have flexibility
When starting out try to choose a revenue stream with a low barrier to entry. Starting with something accessible and budget-friendly allows for a smoother start to your creative journey. If you want to scale your products in the future, make sure your product design is able to accommodate that.
Stay focused on your "why" to avoid distractions and shiny object syndrome. Knowing your goals will help you stay aligned with your creative path.
Download my worksheet today to evaluate opportunities and projects, so that you can ensure they align with your goals and why before committing.
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Sign up for Stacie Bloomfield’s 8-week course “Leverage Your Art. TODAY, August 29th, is the LAST DAY in 2023 that you can enroll! When you sign up with my Affiliate Link, you will get a bonus coaching call with me.
