Many of my friends are at a crossroads in their life right now. They've done good work with various businesses and organizations in the arts and crafts industry and are ready for their next step.
But their next step is not clear to them. There are many options open to them. It seems like they could go anywhere--or nowhere--next. Some are even open to working outside the industry until their goals become more clear.
What should they do?
Of course, I worry right along with them. That's the mother in me.
But one question popped into my head every single time I talk to each of them:
Whose vision do you want to support?
Yes, whatever dreams we may have, we still want work that will support our lifestyle, let us pay the mortgage, pay for college, whatever.
But that still leaves us with a lot of choice on where we invest the two things we have that are defintely not infinite: Our time, and our energy.
Our time and energy are NOT limitless. We need to make good choices about what purpose we put them to.
All of these people are hugely talented and hard-working. Maybe they are not ready or able to work for themselves right now. One thing is clear to me: Whatever cause or agency they devote themselves to will prosper.
So...which cause? What agency? Whose purpose?
If you go into business for yourself, of course you are supporting YOUR vision for YOURSELF. But no matter where you choose to work next, your efforts will help grow SOMEBODY'S vision.
Even a major corporation has a mission statement, or someone who will benefit. Art organizations serve a certain sector. Advertising agencies, PR firms, magazines, non-profits, all benefit someone or some group.
And you get to pick. Hopefully, thinking about where you want to put your energy will help you make the best choice for your next steps.
Whose vision will you support?
