There's often an unspoken expectation that friends and family will be our biggest supporters. We anticipate that they'll not only appreciate our work but also actively promote it. However, this isn't always the case, and that's perfectly fine. In fact, pursuing your creative career for yourself, without relying on external validation, can be a liberating and empowering experience.

The Personal Journey of Creativity

Creative work is inherently personal. It's a manifestation of your thoughts, feelings, and perspectives. When you engage in photography or graphic design, you're not just producing a product; you're expressing a part of yourself. This intimate connection to your work means that the primary person who needs to appreciate it is you.

Selfishness as Self-Care

Labeling your pursuit as "selfish" isn't necessarily negative. In this context, selfishness means prioritizing your own fulfillment and happiness. By focusing on what brings you joy and satisfaction, you're practicing self-care. Your well-being is enhanced when you engage in work that resonates with your inner self, and this, in turn, can lead to greater creativity and productivity.

The Pitfalls of Seeking External Validation

Relying on friends and family for support can sometimes lead to disappointment and frustration. Not everyone will understand or appreciate your creative vision, and that's okay. People have different tastes, interests, and priorities. Forcing others to like or support your work can strain relationships and diminish your own enjoyment of your craft.

The Burden of Expectations

When you expect your inner circle to be your primary audience, you may inadvertently place undue pressure on them and yourself. This can lead to:

• Resentment: Feeling hurt if they don't show the level of interest or enthusiasm you hoped for.

• Creative Compromise: Altering your work to suit their preferences rather than staying true to your vision.

• Distraction: Spending energy on gaining their approval instead of honing your skills and exploring new ideas.

Pursuing Fulfillment Through Your Work

By shifting the focus inward, you allow yourself to delve deeper into your passions. Creating for your own pleasure and fulfillment can lead to more authentic and impactful work. This self-motivated approach encourages you to take risks, experiment, and grow as an artist.

Visualizing Ideas and Freezing Light

As a graphic designer and photographer, you have the unique ability to visualize people's ideas and capture moments by "freezing light". This poetic description highlights the transformative power of your work. You're not just providing a service; you're translating concepts into tangible visuals and preserving fleeting moments for eternity.

The Benefits of Independent Motivation

Operating independently of external support can have several positive effects:

• Creative Freedom: You're free to explore unconventional ideas without worrying about others' opinions.

• Resilience: Building confidence in your work reduces the impact of criticism or lack of support.

• Authenticity: Your work remains true to your vision, making it more genuine and potentially more relatable to a broader audience.

Connecting with a Like-Minded Community

While you may not seek validation from friends and family, connecting with others who share your passion can be rewarding. Engaging with fellow creatives, mentors, or appreciative audiences can provide inspiration and constructive feedback. These connections are often more aligned with your professional goals and can offer support without the complications that personal relationships might entail.

Professional Networks and Collaborations

• Join Professional Groups: Participate in organizations or online communities focused on graphic design and photography.

• Attend Workshops and Events: Expand your skills and meet others in your field.

• Seek Out Collaborations: Working with others can spark new ideas and lead to exciting projects.

Accepting Different Roles in Your Life

It's important to recognize that friends and family may support you in ways that aren't directly related to your career. They may provide emotional support, companionship, and other forms of encouragement that are invaluable. Accepting that they don't need to be your biggest fans allows you to appreciate the unique roles they play in your life.

Conclusion

Pursuing a creative career is a deeply personal journey that doesn't require the active support or approval of friends and family. By focusing on what fulfills you, embracing a bit of "selfishness," and finding joy in your work, you enrich your life and potentially create more profound and authentic art. Your passion for visualizing ideas and capturing moments is a gift to yourself and, ultimately, to those who resonate with your work.

Remember, it's okay to create for yourself. In doing so, you honor your needs and contribute to the world in a way that is genuine and true to who you are. The satisfaction derived from this self-directed path often surpasses any external validation, leading to a more fulfilling and sustainable career.