I have a lot of feelings about stuff, and sometimes it’s hard to write about. This past month has been one of those times.

As I sit staring at a long overdue project, it came to me that one of the reasons why I don’t talk about my work more often is the internal monologue that says (to paraphrase) “Oh, it’s so hard, it’s not going to be good enough. I’m never going to be able to finish it.” I know for a fact many other makers feel this way and so, as a way to hold myself (and others) accountable, I am here to say:

That line of thinking is bullshit.

We are makers. We are driven by a secret fire to create things for a variety of reasons: because we are fulfilling a need that the market isn’t filling. Because there is a communal demand not being met. Because we are able to create an income making what we love. Because we are doing for ~for the aesthetic~. All of these reason are valid.

We need to give ourselves permission to finish a project, even if it’s not perfect. Even if it’s not financially cheaper than a factory-made object. Even if it means risk of rejection.

Your craft is going to be hard. It is going to take you out of your comfort zone. It is going to make to learn new things, make new friends, bring competition to your door. It is going to meet a need you may not even recognize until it’s done.

Your craft is going to be hard and you should do it anyways.

Continue reading “Sometimes Your Craft is Hard; Do it Anyways” →