Most of us start out as creative individuals- we draw, we sing, we dance, we “bake” mud cakes, we play games and make things up and it is all perfectly fine. In fact we are encouraged to do so. No one ever tells us that there’s something wrong with play and creativity, which gives us the idea that it is actually a viable occupation. The more you grow up though, the more things change. Suddenly there are rules, restrictions, and silent classrooms in school, where you don’t get to make things up anymore. And when you do nobody takes that seriously anymore. You need to follow structures, remember facts and do what is expected of you. The more grown up you are the more creativity and otherness seem to become a handicap, something ridiculous, that sane people keep away from. So when you show an interest in creativity as a career you are met with raised eyebrows and discouraging remarks disguised as genuine concern. Splashing watercolors around and sewing clothes for the dolls was cool when you were 5, now it just means you’re a loser and will spend your life in a cardboard box!
Recently someone commented (once) again on my choice to go after a creative career vs. the stable safe job I had at a hotel before. It was quite annoying for a random stranger to judge my life decisions and it reminded me of all the different remarks I’ve heard over the years and I’m sure I’ll keep hearing. So I’ve decided to make fun of them instead of letting myself be irritated. The result was this little collection:
Uhmm let me think… I’ve been drawing, DIY-ing and decorating since I remember, but yeah it probably is just a phase. A lifelong phase.
Yes. I’m sure, because it used to be a hobby. But now it’s a job. Are you sure accounting is not just a hobby?
There is no money in anything. Whatever you do you might fail or succeed. Nothing is guaranteed.
There are also quite a lot of doctors, lawyers, engineers, etc. What’s your point?
Yes. I chose it because it is easy. The self doubt, the never resting voice of the inner critique, the uncertainty, the constant reminding from others that what I do is silly, the rejection, the lack of appreciation… It is all really easy!
I hear cavemen painted images on the walls of their homes, created music, made decorations to wear, they told stories… At the same time they lived happily for thousands of years with no banking, laws or governments.
Of course not. I sit down all day browsing the internet. Isn’t that what everyone is doing these days?
I am old enough to have tried this and that and to know what I am good at and what makes me feel good.
Where can I find that list of “real jobs”, so I can pick one?
There is no “but”. Either give me your support or don’t.
