I recently read an article and had a major realization. I later discovered that Socrates said it much more eloquently…
“We cannot live better than in seeking to become better.” (Socrates)
When it comes to my creative work, I am the only person that is going to push myself to become better. What a simple yet profound realization! Being an artist and entrepreneur means that if we want something, we have to figure it out. Teach ourselves. Take the initiative. Learn how to get it done. Simply put, no one is going to walk us through the process. That’s just the reality. We learn from experience. From trying. From failing. From succeeding. It’s all about self-motivation.
It’s easy to get comfortable. However, I think the key to success is to always hold ourselves to a higher standard. Socrates was right; the best way to live is to always work to become better. (Hey, I didn’t say it would be easy. After all, art is work!) After this realization, I noticed that all of the people I admire are living this way; they are always working to become better in some way. They take risks, try new things, and refine who they are. And what’s even more helpful to remember? Many of them have taught themselves their skills and talent! How’s that for encouragement?
A couple of people have asked me why I’m redesigning my blog; they think it’s fine just the way it is. While it is functional, I view this redesign as essential. I don’t think the current look represents me or my style at all anymore, and I know that I need to do this in order to become better. This is a step to grow closer toward my goals.
I may have mentioned that I’m teaching myself the entire redesign process. Some days I’m super intimidated and doubtful, but eventually I remember that I need to push myself to become better. Despite those moments of doubt, I’ve actually been really enjoying it! I’m so passionate about design that it just makes sense for me to do it myself! Being an entrepreneur is challenging, but I know it will be worth it.
So what are you passionate about? What do you need to do in your creative life in order to become better?
xo
P.S. Have these down to business posts become like mini pep talks or is it just me?! :) (Do you like it that way?)
(Illustration by Molly Jacques. Isn’t she talented? Down to Business is a collaborative series with Molly Jacques Illustration. View more here.)
Thursday, August 9th, 2012, 8:00 am | 
Design, Down to Business | 
RSS feed
| 
Respond | 
Trackback
August 9, 2012 at 9:50 am
YES! Art & creativity & working for yourself are certainly not for people who are afraid of learning, putting themselves out there, and working their tails off. I’m excited to see the redesign & hear more about what you’re learning in the process – you can do it!
[Reply]
August 9, 2012 at 10:09 am
i am so scared of being comfortable for fear of losing the motivation to keep pushing harder and doing better. you nailed the head on this one, colleen. it is so, SO important to strive to get to the next level. it’s refreshing to know that so many of us are out there who won’t settle. it just means our work is going to be more than amazing. ;) can’t wait to see the redesign! get it, girl!
[Reply]
August 9, 2012 at 12:31 pm
I needed to hear this today! It’s all too easy for me to slip into what I know and not push myself. And of course that’s when I feel the most dissatisfied. =P So thanks for sharing! =D
[Reply]
August 9, 2012 at 3:45 pm
Loving this series, lady.
Proud of you! <3
[Reply]
August 10, 2012 at 7:48 am
Well, what do you know? Socrates nailed it almost 2,500 years ago! That is an excellent quote (and what gorgeous calligraphy to illustrate it!) Congrats for redesigning your site yourself, I know first hand how much work it is. You’ll learn so much in the process and you’ll be even prouder of your blog afterwards. Keep it up!
P.S. I very much appreciate your business posts, they’re open and authentic. We all gain from learning about the experiences of each other. It’s all part of the process, isn’t it?
[Reply]
August 11, 2012 at 12:27 pm
Hey Colleen!
I’m passionate about protecting the environment as I think that if we don’t we are just going to ruin the Earth and everything in it, including landscapes and beautiful pictures and design ideas like the ones you post!
Your blog inspires me to make mine better and fills me with amazing ideas, I love it now and I know I’ll love it with all your changes! Thanks!!
[Reply]