Fake tears. Thats what I feel right now. Do you ever feel down or frustrated about a situation and you just want to cry, but you cant. Thats how I feel today.
I love my work, I love my creative freedom, I love pretty much everything about my job, the long days, all of it. But every so often, when you run your own business, you stumble across points where you have to make decisions that are hard, and learn to stand up for yourself. Choices that will lead your business in a certain direction, either personal and ethical, or running other people down just so you can do it all and be on top. I personally choice the first. The older I get, and the more I learn about my own work and creativity, the more I realize what I was meant to do, and in what ways. Always, in business, I take it personal first. If any of you have seen Youve Got Mail, you know when Meg Ryan is all upset about Tom Hanks always saying, 'its not personal, its business', and then she finally says, 'anything that's worth anything, ought to begin with being personal'... I have always loved that line, and believe it to be so true. (and yes, maybe Ive seen that movie too many times) :) But to me, part of my business is building personal relationships with my customers, and my fellow artisans. I love knowing little details of where my things are being shipped to, to me that makes it that much more special. And I have made so many wonderful friends along the way.
I am just ranting a bit, I guess also doing alot of thinking about my beliefs that back up what I do. I believe in the beauty of the creative process. I do agree that we all as artists inspire each other, and pull inspiration from each other, but I believe in being true to yourself. I believe in personal and spiritual growth through what you are doing. I believe your soul must speak when you are creating something, or it is not truly what you should be doing. I believe in not doing what others do just because you think you can make some money doing it. I believe in everything my mom taught me. And from the strength of my father, I am learning to stand up when I need to, the my mother never could.
To all of my artist and crafting friends out there, always be true to yourself. No matter what.
PEACE,
Laura
I love this. I've always loved how personal your creations are.. and your whole shop. You know? There is so much love and energy put into making things and I can really feel you put a lot of time and love into your stuff.
ReplyDeleteTrue words!! And the love does show in your wonderful work. Your words are very recognizable for me...
ReplyDeleteWonderful post Laura! You are an amazing artist and your love and personality truly shows in every creation ! I couldn't agree more with Poor Pitiful Peal...she said it all!! Have a lovely day!
ReplyDeletexoxo~Meg
hope you feel better real sooon dear friend.
ReplyDeleteI don't know what's goin on Laura, but I will always support you in your choices! I hope you push through whatever obstacle you are hitting and I know you will always be honest with yourself. I think you are totally right, in keeping it personal first, I think it's so apparent in your business, it sets you apart, especially in the handmade industry, it's even more-so important.
ReplyDeleteLots of love to you girl.
I couldn't agree you more Laura. I think the only way to be truely succesful in this type of work is to be true to yourself. That is why I love your work. I see it and I see you!! Which is lovely:)
ReplyDeleteP.S. You've Got Mail is one of my all time favorite! Great line!
XOXO
Amber
If you are true to yourself then all good things will follow. Your work is unique and special just like you!
ReplyDeleteOh Laura, you are such an amazing person. You keep just amazing me by how beautiful your soul is.
ReplyDeleteWhenever I think of you and all the things you write, you really inspire me to keep trying to be a better human being and a better artist, to give value to my life and all it's precious moments, and for that, I will be eternally thankful. You are one of the most precious persons I have come across while blogging, and I can seriously put you somewhere in the top 5 of that list.
Keep being as wonderful as you are and if you are ever in the need of something I can help you with, don't doubt to let me know.