Post 2 – Who are you?
This is where I introduce myself. I do so by completely knocking down one of the most common questions posed in society when people are first introduced to each other: “What do you do?”
The question “What do you do?” is perhaps the most detrimental to our identity. This simple question, related to our livelihood, can diminish or amplify our “worth” in a dramatic way. Why? Because…
The “What” in “What do you do?” has come to define the “Who” in who we are as individuals.
The seemingly harmless question essentially ranks paycheck as the most important aspect, above personality, interests, activities and other attributes. It also places a label on intelligence. The more “high-level” the position, the more intelligent.
I believe the question we should be asking is “Who are you?” At least, with this question, I can talk about me, my essence, my true Self. Some people may not know how to answer that question, but at least it could get them thinking and reflecting on who they actually are as individuals.
Who am I?
I am an artist. I am a painter, a writer, a creator. That’s my essence.
I’ve always wanted a career in art but was discouraged by negative comments, conformed ideas and collective beliefs that stated “art is a hobby, not a career choice!”. I heard it from friends and even my husband, Myles. Unfortunately, I came to believe those words to be true. I blame myself for not trying, but I also blame society for its lack of support in art related careers. Jobs are few, pay grades are low, and stability is essentially unattainable.
For years I put my passion aside, ignoring my true identity, moving from one job to the next, in search of fulfillment. I’ve had various jobs such as a teacher, researcher, consultant and even a flight attendant. I currently work as an administrative officer. It’s surprisingly the best job I’ve had to date! It’s not a high-level position, but it doesn’t matter. While I am content with the job, I’m not fully satisfied. Deep down, all I really want is a job where I can create art.
When I turned 37, I decided to start writing a journal venting about society’s ignorance vis-à-vis art, wondering why art had been banned in playing a meaningful role in our economy. My journal was a place where I could express my thoughts freely. After the venting came out, slowly, a story grew out of those thoughts. My mind was creating fiction! The entire writing process and building of ideas was intoxicating! I set aside one hour per day to write and within a few months I set my goals on completing my first book.
Writing motivated me enough to start a career in the creative field.
I had just started writing, and there was much to learn, so I didn’t feel qualified to do any freelance work. However, with my background in fine arts, I wasn’t completely hopeless in finding work in the creative field. Having completed a minor in Fine Arts at University I was qualified enough to teach night classes in acrylic and oil painting at the local college. I taught part-time for a few years, and when I turned 40, I decided to become an art entrepreneur. I started a small business selling my works of art. The plan was to paint as much as I could and sell my works at art shows, art galleries, restaurants and other public venues.
The time I spent painting was exhilarating! I felt free!
I wanted to paint for several hours everyday, but it wasn’t possible. When I decided to become an art entrepreneur I already had a full-time job as a stay-at-home mom. Yes, a stay-at-home mom is, without a doubt, a full-time job! I worked at my new career during my down time, which was limited. When my toddlers slept during the day, I worked. After the kids went to bed in the evening, I worked. Any free time I had on the weekend, I worked! I had no social life, but it didn’t matter. I was pursuing my dream! After several months I had finally developed enough paintings to sell at an art show.
When the day came to sell my art for the first time, I was nervous and unsure. Was my work good enough? Would people like it?