Happy Artist: How to Handle the Ups and Downs in Your Art Business
A few days ago, I posted a carousel on Instagram about how I am living proof that you can have a sustainable, thriving career as an artist without a huge following.
You probably saw it - I think it got more views than any non-Reel post I've ever shared and was seen by almost my entire IG following (which is not really a thing that happens on IG anymore).
I was on a high. I hit something that people resonated with and I soaked up all the positive comments…
And then my mental buzz eventually wore off.
I was still so grateful that I could share something that truly inspired people, but the metrics and the fanfare slowed down. The next couple things I posted on IG performed far below my average.
This week I also sold 4 original paintings out of a new collection of 6 pieces. I was thrilled (I did the little dance around my house that comes out when I get fun news). And then each day after that I checked the gallery website to see if the last 2 sold yet. Not today… And not the next day or the next day.
Do I have a mindfulness practice of 10+ years and consistently remind myself not to be attached to outcomes, whether good or “bad?” Surprisingly, yes I do haha.
Is not being attached to outcomes way easier said than done?
Yes, it is!
A mentor I love, Carrie Green (whoI , says being an entrepreneur - and, for all of us here, being an artist/entrepreneur - is like riding a roller coaster in the dark. There are ups and downs and you don’t always know which one is coming next.
But being able to navigate your career, your online presence, your success during the highs AND the lows is everything.
Enjoying the exciting moments, while resting easy knowing you'll still be you and you'll still be ok once they pass.
Soothing yourself on the slow days, reminding yourself that you’ll still be you and you’ll still be ok… and the next awesome thing (next commission project, sale, press feature, kind message…) is on its way to you.