A New Start
I knew printing signs wasn’t my calling. I had been working extremely long hours, and the tasks became painfully repetitive. I’d see the laughably overpriced artwork ad agencies sent for printing, and I knew I could do ten times better. But the opportunity to prove that became rare in my role at the company.
I described the artist’s dream in another article, originally meant to serve as a prelude to this part—but it grew so long it became an article on its own.
This lack of inspiration and motivation is what pushed me to take the bold step into freelancing. I’d always dreamt of growing my own art studio, and in my mind, this was the first official step.
I always knew I would start my own studio eventually. And feeling stagnant at the sign company, I didn’t think there was much more for me to accomplish elsewhere either, since I had already worked with and interacted with several companies on behalf of my boss.
I received job offers when people heard I was leaving, but something in me knew it was time to venture out on my own.
Boy, was I naïve.
Financial Burdens
I wish I could say the rest is history and that I successfully launched my art studio, achieving x, y, and z—but things didn’t unfold the way I imagined.
Starting a studio required far more than I anticipated. First, I needed a proper plan—because back then, I was figuring out almost everything as I went along. Had I a guiding light in the form of a mentor or even a family member, things might have looked different. That’s not me shifting blame; I fully accept that the responsibility was mine.
The second challenge was financial stability. I didn’t come from money, nor did I have substantial savings. Everything I earned went straight back into the business.
Financial struggles continued year after year. My goals drifted further away, and many of the challenges I faced then still linger today.
It is what it is.
Off Track
I eventually lost my passion and vision for some years. The impulsive urge to draw or design faded. I became reluctant to create anything that wasn’t financially beneficial because it felt like a waste of time—an attitude imposed on me by people around me who didn’t understand my vision and only saw me struggling.
Creating just for fun made me feel guilty.
Back on Track
Thankfully—if you want to see it this way—through failed business ventures, partnerships, and everything in between, I’ve found myself reconnecting with my dreams again. Almost like rediscovering a lost book, comic, movie, game, or toy you cherished as a child.
Memories and ideas are resurfacing, reminding me of who I was when things were simpler, and what I originally set out to do.
Support
Over the years, I’ve had time to iron out major wrinkles, and looking back, I’m almost glad things didn’t work out the way I expected. I probably wouldn’t have the bold conviction I have now to pursue the grand dream ahead of me.
A lot of emotional baggage—particularly in the form of people who were negative, fearful, or uninspiring—has fallen away. A lot has changed, and the people around me now are my rock, my peace, and part of my motivation. Something I didn’t have before.
Keep Moving Forward
Looking back, I realise I never lost complete sight of the vision. Even with the failed ventures, they were somewhat aligned—they were stepping stones, just with different outcomes in mind.
Everything feels clearer now. In my time off-course, I gained a wealth of knowledge and experience that wiped out fears and uncertainties I once had.
With this newfound purpose, and realigning myself with my dreams, I can’t help but quote the great and wise Buzz Lightyear as I restart this journey:
“To infinity and beyond.”