July 5, 2022

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I have a confession: creating art is not fulfilling. …Don’t get me wrong, it’s fulfilling as work, but it’s actually not my entire life. (I just talk about it a lot here because this began as a sort of work blog. This might be shifting!) A lot of people ask me about my daily and weekly routine. While I try to stick to one, the fact is, I have relationships I prioritize over work. And I think that’s one of the things I like about being self-employed: the time flexibility to put my people over work. 

My mom doesn’t drive. She’s had PTSD from a bad vehicle accident, so she never learned to drive. When she needs to go to a doctor appointment, or needs groceries, or just wants to hang out because it’s been a while, I can shuffle my schedule around to be there for her. 

When a mom friend needed a last-minute babysitter, I was able to drop everything and run right over. When another mom friend needed relational support (as she’s from a different country and was living in Lancaster County temporarily), I carved out a few hours a month to spend time with her.

That is what’s fulfilling about my lifestyle. And as far as the art itself… I enjoy the creative process, but what’s fulfilling is connecting with people through it (especially high school kids). I love seeing people light up with inspiration, especially as I share my personal stories behind them. The misunderstood artsy kids see me as someone they could grow up to be. The art becomes a vehicle for deeper connection, including in sharing my faith, and the role of the Holy Spirit in my process. (I have some great stories about that!) That is where I get to see tangible evidence of my sense of calling as an artist.

I know a lot of hobbyist or younger artists idealize the full-time artist life. And I truly am thankful that I get to spend most of my time in a process I love. But it’s not my identity. I came to realize that spending my whole week (as in, 7 days) working is actually pretty isolating, so I’m building structures in my life that allow me to thrive holistically–spiritually, physically, mentally, and emotionally. I understand the importance of a good work ethic, but what we (especially entrepreneurs) never talk about is a good rest ethic. 

So cheers to more resting, kayaking, swimming, a new gym, getting back into eating better, and game nights with friends. I’m pretty sure we create better when we get to have time as normal, well-rested, and well-rounded human beings!

About the Author

Vania Hardy is an artist, illustrator, and designer who loves helping people find their creative uniqueness and create inspiring spaces in which to live, work, and thrive. Her bodies of work include painted acrylic pieces on canvas, an array of illustrated children's books, and small business branding.

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