Recently, I came across an Instagram reel in which a creator discussed the difficulty of pursuing art. Many reasons were brought up, ranging from the need for stability to the challenges in accessing art supplies.
While watching the video, I felt relieved. As someone pursuing my passions in gymnastics and art, I have faced plenty of challenges that have been quite difficult to overcome. And, moreover, this isn’t my first time pursuing a passion.
A few years ago, I tried to pursue a career in fashion. I thought I was passionate about it, only to realize that there weren’t any jobs. I also felt scrutinized in the industry; it made me super uncomfortable. And because of that experience, I decided my best bet was to opt for stability. But after a few setbacks, I realized that stability wasn’t exactly the answer. Instead of sacrificing financials, I’m sacrificing my mental health, my values, and my strengths.
However, when I chose to return to pursuing my passions, I realized why people often choose a more prestigious field.
First, let’s be honest; people are very judgmental at times. Although the linear timeline is no longer applicable, people still tend to base their perceptions on it. Imagine striking a conversation with an acquaintance, and they ask you “What do you work as?”
And you reply, “artist.”
Their reply will most likely be on the lines of, “Oh wow, isn’t that so hard?” or “Oh, that is very cute.”
It’s almost dismissive, as if they don’t really value the career as a whole. And that’s because people tend to understand careers only with measurable progression. And yes, the answer does tend to sting a little. Because you feel as if you’re navigating career decisions alone, without anybody.
Then, there’s the issue with rejections. In any artistic career, everyone will face rejection, whether from galleries, employers, or commissions. In any passion-based career, everyone will face rejection from jobs, interviews, or gigs.
However, the side of passion which people rarely talk about is the aftermath of rejection. Because you’re so passionate about your work, rejection doesn’t only sting, it hurts. Being rejected feels as if a part of your identity is gone. And even if others say “not to take it personally,” it often does feel more than personal.
Because of this, you tend to question yourself: Is my work good enough or am I cut out for this field?
And you just hope that someone one day can accept your work for what it is. But you aren’t sure when that day will come, or who that someone can be. At best, you can just hope that the day will come soon.
The uncertainty while waiting will sting. And because of that, you no longer have an idea of how you’re doing in your career. Some days, you’ll feel behind, as if your work is mediocre at best and on some days, you’ll feel as if you can be the next Vincent van Gogh.
The waiting will hurt. The rejections will feel awful. And people’s opinions will weigh an individual down.
But as they say, don’t let dreams be dreams. When you love something, you’ll feel the need to chase it. If you love it, the difficulties won’t ever stop you. Sure, there will be hard days, but in the end, you’ll be glad you made the decision. And because of that, you’re well on the pathway to success.