Work and creativity are inextricably related. If your job drains you, then you don’t have the energy to pursue creative projects that excite you. By “creative project,” I mean everything from making art to planting a garden – whatever it is that makes you light up inside.
“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” -Howard Thurman
We only live once, folks. It may sound hyperbolic, but think about what you want it to say on your tombstone, and ask yourself if your life is on track to get you there. If not, ask yourself, what’s holding you back?
If you’re feeling stuck – check out the Creative Liberty blog for tips about developing creative momentum. I also highly recommend picking up a copy of The Artist’s Way, the book that, no exaggeration, changed my life.
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
“You only live once”
Bingo. That’s exactly why we made the change from doing a 9-5 job, to something we love.
We didn’t want to have to wait until we were 65 to do all the creative things in life. What a waste that would be.
We consider our life right now as retirement.
Anyways… yeah. Yeah.
Now to inspire more DC folk to do the same!
Thanks for the shout-out! I have always loved the Howard Thurman quote!
This is why I stopped working 9-5. I always feel like I have to make some excuse or feel guilty. Really, it was to free me to do the things I love and stop wasting energy on work I didn’t care about.
Thanks for this post!
my problem is that my job is creative and is generally satisfying – more satisfying than any previous job i’ve ever had – but threatens and often suffocates my personal life, where i also pursue other creative projects that are vital to my personal satisfaction. not to mention the both of us having long hours is driving not only me, but my beloved spouse crazy.
i’m just hoping i can find something that’s satisfying as my vocation, that complements or inspires my off-hours activities.
thanks for the links. i’ll check them out.
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