I’ve been in conversation with my creative friends and let me tell you, I appreciate their transparency. I’m this humble Midwesterner raised in a midwestern and southern household and associate with the same kind of folks. When I decided to turn my artistry into a business, I knew that I had to get out of my comfortable shell and interact with other creatives. I wanted to be a part of an art community but that also meant I had to get used to interacting with people differently this time. I had to learn some real lessons if I’m going to survive this art life…but there are some things that people need to learn about me.
We can talk, but you don’t have to share everything with me. I’m a firm believer in setting boundaries. I’m easy to talk to but I’ll never beg someone to share the most intimate details of their lives because it’s not my business nor will I do that as well. Tell me whatever you feel comfortable sharing.
Respect each other’s differences. Differences in cultures, opinions, feelings, etc. shouldn’t be ignored and asking questions helps to clarify the lack of understanding. It’s ok to have disagreements and discussions in the most respectful way. Unfortunately, many people don’t know how to do that without being confrontational.
We don’t owe each other explanations. I’ve worked in many places where executive decisions were made without talking to me about it. That’s what I’m used to, but I also recognize that everyone doesn’t agree with that. There are people that want the courtesy of having a discussion before an executive decision is made. I understand that and my intentions are good, but I have a reason for nearly every decision I make. This is where we draw the line - unless we have a contract together, we don’t owe each other explanations for executive decisions. If you decide not work with me, ok, maybe next time. I promise you I’m not going to feel salty about that. If I decide to not work with you, I might let you know and keep moving.
Have tough skin. Take everything with a grain of salt and keep moving. You will come across people that won’t like you, your work or anything else they can think of. Everyone doesn’t deserve your kindness, time and attention. I’ve come across tons of posts that people are not afraid to use that block button if they believe someone is trying to disturb their peace. Nasty attitude? Blocked. Disrespectful? Blocked. Distracted and annoyed by your content? Blocked.
Can we really fault anyone for being who they are and how they present themselves? No, and not if they’ve addressed their traits the first time. Can we still show support and not insert ourselves into their lives? Yes. Being a creative, especially if you want to get paid, is not for the weak and you will always be tested. Don’t ignore that inner voice. Read people carefully, handle your situations accordingly and be your most authentic self.
Share your thoughts. What life lessons have you learned that you use in your creative journey?
Peace,
Alex B
These are good! One life lesson I’ve learned is that not everyone will support you and that’s okay. I know plenty of people who love and want me to succeed but has never read a thing I’ve written. In the beginning you’re happy about putting your work into the world and it’s easy to become discouraged when you don’t receive the support you’re looking for from loved ones. But part of being an artist of any kind is finding the people who need and will support your work.
I concur with all of your points except the first one. As an introvert, I don't have to talk, but that's just me, as you know. Anyway, I apply every life lesson as often as necessary, which is every day. From reading people as an Empath to being the aforementioned introvert, I've never met an uncomfortable silence. It's all comforting to me. But the main one is a byproduct of overcoming neglect: knowing my self-worth and what I stand for allows me to ignore hate, which is second nature to me. And as I told you, my friend, if they keep messing with me, I will make a piece about it – them, whoever. Protect your peace, fellow creatives!