I told you earlier today about the magic of keyword search in twitter. What I didn't tell you is that recently I've taken to combing Twitter as well as Google when I do some of my Flash Inspiration searches and/or when I'm just looking for new resources. What I like about Twitter searches is I usually find people well outside my normal sphere of influence. I also find interesting spots, when I follow the new tweeters website links, that would not always show up on the first or second page of my google searches. Some of this off the beaten path stuff is just fabulous!
Case in point is this gem I recently found: Cyn over at CMYKaboom who had this to say about herself:
I consider myself an inspiration-hunter: I am always looking for new ways to inspire myself and others. One way I keep the creative juices flowing is my weekly feature "Inspiration Machine," in which I try to come up with 10 new ways to infuse life with creativity and a sense of play.
Read her explanation for the blog name and you could be immediately hooked, as I was. I really can't believe I am her 9th Google Friend Follower. Maybe you'll be next? Her website is eye candy for the creative soul in everyone and I highly recommend a visit!
In addition to finding inspiration all around I've also been delving into the idea of making a living with my craft. In my case, it would be the writing of this blog and a novel (which hasn't been getting much attention lately.) Having developed my own visions of grandeur following my viewing of the Julie & Julia movie, I've developed a fascination for people who are making a living pursuing their passions.
Some time last week I ran across Chris Guillebeau's Art of Non-Conformity Blog where he shares Unconventional Strategies for Life, Work and Travel and is boldly professing his plans for World Domination. In other words people doing what they love and actually making a living doing it. He shares very specifically about what he has done and how others, also living unconventionally, make a living pursuing their crafts and passions.
I downloaded his free ebook 279 Days to Overnight Success and immediately got inspired by what might be possible with my Everyday Games. I also began to think about you my dear readers, the vast majority of whom who do marvelous creative work but have been stumped about how to make a living doing it. In Chris's 279 Days to Overnight Success he shares about Soniei a Self-represented Artist who is doing this very thing. In the guide Soniei says this about her life as an artist: “i wake up everyday and i work on whatever it is i feel like working on that day,” and “i love working at home, drinking tea and watch- ing my auctions. i just love it. Passion comes first.” You can visit her at her website or take a look at Chris's Free Download and see how she is doing it.
I'm with Soniei, passion does come first and I think it is about time I got started following mine! How about you? Theresa, one of my fabulous guest bloggers, recently told us about taking her leap of faith to follow her creative endeavors. What do you think it will take for you to follow your passion?!
Next Post - Another type of Inquiry
My 13 bliss virtues are joy, order, creativity, passion, whimsy, serenity, inquiry, community, romance, gratitude, moxie, humility, and surprise.
This week we are studying Inquiry. Next up is Community Week.
This week we are studying Inquiry. Next up is Community Week.
Much food for thought here. I think I will check out this e-book. I say to go for your dreams! You will never know unless you give it a try. :) I am inspired by my art classes to try and create a little inspirational art journal for myself. To refer to when my passion and drive may falter. It's so important to have a support system, as well. Like-minded friends who see the world as you do and have the same hopes and dreams for themselves. We are all in the same boat - sharing is caring, as they say!
ReplyDeleteTheresa :)
Great post! I think it's a great idea to try to make a living from your passions...I've recently been thinking about doing the same. It's kind of scary though, but sometimes that risk is worth taking if you know it can lead to a happier, healthier life. For me to truly follow my passion, I need to learn to be completely confident in my journey, and that's something I'm working on each day. I realize that I'm the only thing (or person) that's holding me back and once I can get past that for good, there's no stopping me! haha. I'll have to check out that e-book....
ReplyDeleteAlso, thanks so much for tweeting and promoting my giveaway through Facebook- it is SO much appreciated : )
I'm so glad that I found your blog! I'm always seeking inspiration and trying to live a creative life. I'm going to check out your survey too. Happy SITS Saturday Sharefest! : )
ReplyDelete