The Art of Juggling: Balancing Creativity and Business as a Solo Artist
The Art of Juggling: Balancing Creativity and Business as a Solo Artist
As a self-employed artist, I wear every hat—from CEO to Sales and marketing, to finance, and janitor. This gig isn't just about creating ceramics; it's about running a business and handling every moving part, all on my own.
If I had my way, I'd spend every day in my studio, lost in the clay and my music. But reality doesn't work that way. My tendency to immerse myself in creating means that I sometimes neglect the business side of things until things pile up. Before I know it, I’m spending entire days photographing, writing descriptions, setting prices (see blog), and managing inventory. Oh, and don’t forget the time spent packing orders, answering emails, and handling shipping logistics.
So yeah, time management and discipline is essential. I’ve learned that to keep the wheels turning, I need to carve out time for a little bit of everything each day. It requires constant balance, prioritization, and, sometimes, a bit of chaos. But the freedom to call my own shots? That’s worth every juggling act. I’m no longer being paid to help achieve someone else’s financial success under their rules and bylaws. I’m no longer worrying if I’m good enough, fast enough, smart enough, impressive enough. I’m no longer needing to be that person or speak that lingo. I can breathe again.
The freedom that comes with being my own boss is liberating. There are no office politics, no zoom meetings that could have been emails, and no one telling me how to spend my day or leading through fear. I set my own schedule and make decisions that align with my vision, morals, and ethics. But with that freedom comes the weight of responsibility. Every task falls on my shoulders, from managing finances to packaging orders, promoting my work, and, of course, creating the art itself. Oh yeah, and there’s the paycheck and insurance things.
But despite the workload and unknowns, there's a deep sense of satisfaction in knowing that everything I accomplish is a direct result of my own effort that comes from within. I hope that is reflected in my work.