That is not to say it isn’t a struggle. On average, more than 70% of professional artists like their work, while 70% of executives, doctors, teachers and other workers dislike theirs. And that’s a valid concern, but not an entirely rational one. I’m here working on it and every day I meet someone else who resonates with Artist Strong’s mission I know we are getting closer to it. And say, “The arts are so important to me. When she applied to a prestigious school in her home country, she was told her artwork and her research based studies via the visual arts are what made her stand out. One where well meaning parents, teachers, or other authority figures tell them that their interest in the arts is “cute” or “great for a hobby,” but “what about a real job?”, This kind of interaction demeans creative interests. It suggests creativity is less important, less valuable and thus, why would we ever invest our time and energy into it? Just remember, we are out to change the world. I think it is so positive of you to listen to your inner self & to stick to your ideas of what you want to do with your life. Your section on compassion is something I think is key. Don’t be aggressive when someone says something dismissive about arts based interests. It also hinders many young artists from exploring the prospects in art because of the perceived impression that artists cannot sustain themselves or … Is this an ideal worth holding onto, or does it hold us back from our best work? Real artists don’t make money from their work. Often it’s the very same activities that can lead us to our creative path. But at the same time, what writer, designer, or musician wants to be irrelevant or ignored? I still remember how it felt when I had a counselor tell me I was too smart to take vo-tech classes. I dont know where this going to get me. One student decided to stick with her art class. Creativity is now the MOST in-demand soft skill according to LinkedIn’s annual survey of Most In Demand Skills. I’m so glad you are part of Artist Think. This is not pandering; it’s empathy. I did not see that report, I will definitely read it. But I think that we creatives are afraid that in caring too much about marketing or business, we will somehow lose the purity of our art. Linda, thank you so much for sharing. All aggression can ever do is bully someone into submission. Fretful parents, who is better off?”. With access to tools and technology we’ve never had before, this is truly the best time to be creative. The answer is a little complicated, but here’s the good news: You don’t have to be sleazy to succeed. Finding time, keeping motivated, dealing with naysayers, honoring familial commitments and obligation alongside one’s creative pursuits… it is difficult, but not impossible. Being more inwardly focused, artists have a sensitivity for what people really need even before they realize it. That story is a means to justify personal decisions not to engage with their creative interests. The "starving artist" mentality is a means of disempowering yourself and not taking responsibility for your destiny. If so, get my free strategy-guide where I teach everything I know. At least, it doesn’t have to be. Eventually, the naysayers will look at you and see that something has changed and a respect of sorts occurs and they become less vocal. It is so important for each of us to ‘listen to who we are’. Joe thank you so much for reading. Schools can claim to support the arts, but when parents come banging down doors insisting arts based grades should be based on effort not skill, or that arts should not be a mandated subject, institutions often heel. I am curious if you have seen a recent report released by BFAMFAPHD that showed how expensive arts degrees are compared with how few of those with arts degrees work in arts related fields. When the world continues to tell us our arts based interests are unimportant, who can we turn to for support, acceptance and love? This notorious French novel depicts a community of poor artists living in … We need money to keep the lights on and buy supplies, but it’s not everything. It’s also the best time for companies and organizations to leverage the advantages of creative people. The myth of the starving artist was a hoax." by Carrie Brummer | Why do the Arts Matter? Belief that the “starving artist status quo” is indeed a myth, belief that finances can be a force for good, and belief that artists can and should thrive. Try to understand where their idea comes from… ask them: “why do you think that?” “What evidence do you have?” “Did you once enjoy the arts?” I find those speaking against the arts do need our empathy and support.