Finding Your Calling (it’s not black and white)

When I tell people about my work and what my career plans are, they are quick to support my ambitions. Then, I tell them about my art, and suddenly their view of my life changes. I’m often asked, Do you really want to do this? Why don’t you just follow your dreams?

Wow, thanks, but I’m already doing it. Right?

Well, the thing is, if you’re like me, then anything related to the arts comes naturally to you. I love to write, paint, do pottery, and create content like my blog and podcast. If I like something, I do it. There’s nothing I can’t do or fall in love with.

Unfortunately, like the saying goes, a jack of all trades is a master of none.

For years, I’ve struggled with my career path, because, like it or not. It defines who you are to other people.

Example: my older sister is in medical school, people hear this and immediately think Wow, what a smart, caring, elegant woman. They see an angel. My cousin is a political science major and plans to pursue law. People hear this and think white house, logical, smart. All of these things are good, though; it’s not bad to assume people in prestigious paths are seen as great in a way.

Then there are the artists, depending on your background, your income, and your lifestyle. Being called an artist can be seen as a status symbol or a sign of poverty. The saying starving artist exists for a reason, so then it all comes down to one thing.

Money.

I live in the USA, it’s a capitalist country, advantages are given to those who are born into the high life, while others fight tooth and nail to reach what is handed out to some.

So you’re here because you’re lost, confused, maybe you know what your plan is, but you need a little reassurance.

Some people will say to choose a practical skill, something you’re good at that can make you money. Others will tell you to follow your dreams no matter what. It’s not black and white; both choices obviously seem good in their own ways. However, the answer you’re looking for comes down to this idea.

What do you want out of life?

No matter what your choice is, you’re sacrificing something.

Following your passions will likely be filled with struggle, especially early on. There’s no guarantee of success, but if you find it, great. Are you willing to risk that you may not be some famous artist that makes millions per piece, or that you may not be a New York Times best-selling novelist?

Doing something practical sounds like an easy path: you’ll make money to retire early, and you’ll travel a lot. This comes with its own risks; you may not have as much time for your passions.

So, back to the original question, what do you want out of life?

Once you figure out what matters more to you, the answer is easy, even if it’s uncomfortable and frustrating. There are also no wrong answers here; it’s all about what feels right to you.

As for me, I’ve found a balance. I do what’s practical, I study hard, and I also make time for my passions. I don’t have as much time for them, but maybe if I play it smart, I’ll retire early. Have more time for my passions. Who knows, my life may completely change after writing this, and I may be on a completely different path.

Nothing is linear, live like there’s no tomorrow, but prepare like you have an eternity left to live.