thanks for watching! Let me know if you have any thoughts or questions on the whole "quit your 9-5 to pursue your dreams" thing or my ~employment journey~ hehe. Life changes are tricky, but I know it'll get easier with time ❤
My dad gave me some amazing advice he got from a successful creative who said "It's not what you do from 9-5. It's what you do from 5-9". Keep going, keep creating, and your business will grow.
Honestly as a creative/freelance photographer who has a hybrid 9ish to 4ish job. I love having a consistent job that I don’t have to worry about when my next gig will be. Also I’m curious what do you do for your 9-5?
I'm curious is there a deciding factor that made you finally go back to your job? I would somehow think that having a big audience on social media like you would make things go smoothly, I hope you could enlighten us more on the behind-the-scenes and 'reality' of doing it fulltime! Really love how open you are on your vlogs, thanks for sharing!
So here is the thing, try not label yourself one way or another. You are still chasing your dream of being an artist. The only difference is now you have a full-time job to add to your days' equation. I was a full-time artist even though I had a full-time job for 10 years. Lets look at it this way, now you are more free financially to paint and draw pieces that are exactly what you want without worries to sell them. Full-time? you are an artist 24/7. that is who you are. You are just doing what you need to do for financial reasons, no shame in that. Please keep expressing yourself and being the amazing creative person you are.
wow that was such a lovely and encouraging message. For some reason, I felt you spoke to me! lol... Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the subject. I think it will help a lot of us.
@@Fiveoneandahalf Never put pressure on ourselves, the world has no problem trying to discourage artists from creating consistently. Keep going and never worry about labels.
This! I tried to turn my passions and hobbies into a sustainable lifestyle and it didn't work. But some of that bleeds into my 9-to-5 and I still pursue opportunities outside of that job that tickle my interests and challenge me in different ways. You can have the best of both worlds, and working a 9-to-5 may not be forever but a just for now. Gotta live, gotta eat, and gotta learn how to play nicely in corporate worlds. All useful for chasing your passions.
As someone who also has been trying for YEARS (LITERALLY 5 YEARS, *2/5 SERIOUS YEARS*) to make my career dreams come true, I'm at this point in my life where I think I need to shift my perspective on what I want in my life, and how I want my life to look. I'll admit, like a lot of people, I think I got caught up in the romantic vision we see online of people pursuing creative fields online, and dropping everything to do it. I think if you can make it work, that's amazing, but it's not the norm. I have my teaching degree and I have been working as a sub for these past few years, and rejecting more full-time positions bc I wanted to work/pursue my graphic design passion. I'm SO proud of the progress and skills I have learned with design these last years, but financially, it hasnt been hitting. I'm beginning to rethink what I want, in terms of the type of challenge and struggle I want to pursue in my life. Truthfully, it's not sexy always stressing about money, worrying about going out with friends and micromanaging every dollar. I won't ever stop design, I feel it's in my blood. But I'm beginning to see that perhaps it might be in my life in a different way than I initially thought. It might be something I do on the side instead of being in a full-time office environment. Maybe that's okay too.
I don't see failure here at all, I see strength and resilience. Your honesty is so refreshing and figuring out what works for you and going for it is absolutely a good thing.
Most small businesses take 2+ years to become profitable and stable. I hope you are proud of yourself for taking a step towards your dreams! Even though it may not have been what you expected it doesn't mean that journey is over for you. We love your art and cannot wait to see how you grow in this new chapter. Wishing you all the best
Please don’t feel like a failure - I’ve just subscribed because content creators and artists who also work a 9-5 are far more relatable, imo. Congrats and best wishes!
Honestly true. I’ve followed a few whose whole shtick is that they are relatable, and then they got big enough to quit their jobs, and basically lost all of their following since a full-time content creator isn’t relatable to anyone except other content creators.
Girly went through the same thing. I got a bachelors degree in social work and started working in the field. After feeling ''burned-out'' for the third time in three different jobs I had to face the facts and realize that I had to start over. I had to quit the field totally because I felt taking care of people is what I love to do in my personal life, it's not what I want to do profesionally. Honestly, I just want to make the money to support myself and find a job that has a good workplace environment and a place where I can be myself. Right now i'm working around 16 hours at a lunchroom and while I can sometimes still feel like I'm failing: I know this is my way and I'll figure it out. What you think works and is the best for you changes all the time and that is totally fine. This life we have is to try and have a good time and whatever that is at the moment is fine for you.
Im going through the exact same thing! also just finished my social work bachelors degree and after I got my first big girl job I felt so drained. I felt like I failed and currently am looking for something out of the field entirely, I quit my social work corporate position and work as a daycare teacher atm lol it’s not a forever thing im just looking for something that I will love.
You are actually speaking my life right now. I did the same. I left my full time job of 8 years to chase my dreams (start a home bakery business). 6 months later, I have to return to a job. I didn't quit thinking this wouldn't potentially happen, but I was hoping I wouldn't have to. It does feel like a failure, but I wouldn't have known the reality of things until I did it. Even though I lost the security and stability of my old job, I would never have done the hard parts of starting my business if I didn't leave. I took a scary risk, and I'm still here--though broke, I don't expect it to be permanent; it'll just be hard for a while. Praying for all the ones who said yes to their passions and will endure the journey. Because it's what you love, you will succeed.
I did the opposite, its completely ok to say “oops” and realize if we’re going to be forced to work (why the heck can’t we dilly dally all the time as we were created to!!!!) we need to find a place we can feel the most comfortable/stable. If that’s a 9-5, that’s ok! I was the opposite: because of chronic illness, a standard schedule with strict regulations to follow didn’t work for my employer so I had to fall back on my business again. I love my freedom, but boy do I miss that subsidized healthcare and various benefits 😅 each has their own pros and cons and I hope no one is criticizing you for doing what you need to do. And that goes for anyone reading this!
I truly admiring you for giving it your all for 6 months, using that as a learning experience, and realizing it’s not exactly what you want at this time. I know it seems like everyone glorifies running your own business but it is hard and there is no shame in craving some stability and predictability, especially when it’s a direct link to your stress and health. Who knows what the future will bring, maybe art will work better full-time at another time in the future. Thank you for sharing the ups and downs, everyone always emphasizes the “good” but rarely does anyone share the true struggles.
Girl! I’m in the same boat. Quit my job a month ago because of burnout and wanting to pursue more creative careers. It takes guts to do what you did. The fact that you tried and you still have your business, that’s still a win. 🎉
I went back to my job after freelancing graphic design 2 years ago and it's actually given me the headspace to be more creative and make content that actually helps people, instead of making content for marketing because I need the money... I still do some client work but there's not that pressure, ya know? I'm so glad creators like you exist to normalise the ups and downs of being an artist
Hello, hello! I just wanted to say that the reason why I started watching your content was the idea of being able to juggle between having a full time job AND being able to get "rewarded" for your artistry BONUS yt content creation. Relying only on the artistic environment for making a living is very scary and so, this kind of life you are presenting now (and the one before leaving your job) is actually what I wish to achieve. So, for me, as a watcher, you coming back to a secure job is actually a win. Hope you stay strong and get to relax. I wish you the best! ✨
As someone who used to freelance and had to go back to my job i so agree! Creators like her are one of the reasons I know a life like this is possible. It's ok to want stability AND a life where you can truly express yourself and do your art. I love this community :)
There's NO SHAME in having to do what you have to do when it comes to surviving. I work in the animation industry and things are tough right now, with a lot of my peers having to take jobs outside the industry to make ends meet. Sometimes the world just isn't kind to creatives (new and veteran), but your time will come and I'm delighted to see your spirit is still very much intact. Also, your "The Scream" piece gave me a good hearty chuckle. Wishing you the best!
Hey! I totally understand and can relate. I'm ending my sabbatical soon and going back to the 9-5. I realized I needed structure in my life and a stable income while working on my passion projects as a side hustle instead. Life is so tricky and weird! Hope you're feeling better!
I hope you don't feel like a failure. Doing art on the side doesn't make you less of an artist. I can relate. I quit my job 6 months ago because it depressed me and that affected my other job, my art! And now while I feel more relaxed, my art job isn't doing well too. Sometimes it feels like I can't win. It's stressful in both situations in different ways. But we can slowly figure things out. You can do it 🙌🏻
Oftentimes people get caught up on "The sunk cost fallacy" (which is the tendency to continue investing time, money, or effort into something even when it's not working out, even though it would be better to give up. This can lead to irrational decisions that are not in your best interest.) It's definitely not a waste of time to follow your dreams, but regardless, it seems to me you're not getting caught up in that general idea that you have to force it to work and are doing what is best for your current mental health, and that is amazing!
Wow you don’t know how much this video sort of validated my own feelings since I had a very similar experience to yours. I went full time as an artist for 4 months after my art instagram started doing well earlier this year. I thought the stress would subside after the first month or two but it ended up just getting even worse and made it so tough for me to even pick up the pencil. Going back to my part time job has given me stability and a sense of purpose again while I work on my art the other half of the time. Anyways, I hope you have enjoyed being back at your job and I hope that we can both find ways to make and share our art in ways that don’t stress us the hell out 😭
As someone who also has been trying for YEARS (LITERALLY 5 YEARS, *2/5 SERIOUS YEARS*) to make my career dreams come true, I'm at this point in my life where I think I need to shift my perspective on what I want in my life, and how I want my life to look. I'll admit, like a lot of people, I think I got caught up in the romantic vision we see online of people pursuing creative fields online, and dropping everything to do it. I think if you can make it work, that's amazing, but it's not the norm. I have my teaching degree and I have been working as a sub for these past few years, and rejecting more full-time positions bc I wanted to work/pursue my graphic design passion. I'm SO proud of the progress and skills I have learned with design these last years, but financially, it hasnt been hitting. I'm beginning to rethink what I want, in terms of the type of challenge and struggle I want to pursue in my life. Truthfully, it's not sexy always stressing about money, worrying about going out with friends and micromanaging every dollar. I won't ever stop design, I feel it's in my blood. But I'm beginning to see that perhaps it might be in my life in a different way than I initially thought. It might be something I do on the side instead of being in a full-time office environment. Maybe that's okay too.
That’s EXACTLY what I was thinking. People several months unemployed after applying for hundreds of jobs. You are VERY fortunate. Keep pursuing your dreams!!!!
Oh man, thank you so so much for sharing this, It took me around 4/5 years to go solo completely as a artist and I think going back will actually give you more freedom to experiment and explore which is a good space to be in, I had a full time and even two part time jobs at the same time to supplement my income, and it took me aggggeeeeeees to become a little more stable to the point of full time employment, YOU GOT THIS! 🌷 Have fun discovering and being on this journey!
Gabi this is so valid and real af. I'm a full time graphic designer and after doing that for a few years I literally had to get on antidepressants because having adhd and needing to have a 9-5 is so 😅 And you are still an inspiration to me as someone who wants to slowly build an art business.
That's so interesting to hear! Are you saying that graphic design caused you to go on meds? I work in education, but I've been trying to pursue graphic design for years as a full-time career, but I'm finding it incredibly difficult to get into an office job...
Thanks for being so real! I'm also an engineer/artist and it was so felt when you mentioned external accountability. It's been a super hard truth to realize I'm not the best with self motivation.
i love that you made a vlog surrounding this big undecided, inbetween, transitional point in your life. it's comforting to see someone be honest and vulnerable. and its also super beautiful and powerful to document it, and embrace the obstacles life throws at us 💖
I went through the same thing when I quit my job, and I felt constantly stressed and anxious all the time 😵💫 I've been doing my day job and then my lil art on the side still because it does bring me so much joy, but lately I've been so exhausted just trying to keep up with both, and questioning if it's all worth the exhaustion 🥺 Thank you Gabi for sharing your experience with us & letting us into your world ♥♥♥
Watching this vlog made me feel a little less alone. I felt like I was somewhat thriving and growing in my creative venture, only to fall (after certain circumstances such as cyberbullied and losing years of my music portfolio (IG) after being hacked) and life has pushed me to shift to my focus on my 9-5 corporate job. After a while it gets hard to come back to my creative side due to exhaustion or thought of doing creative endeavours alone (all my creative friends continued their journey while i'm stuck here uninspired). I'm slowly wanting to get back up, and I'm hoping I'll be able to reconnect to my creative side and ventures again. It's scarier when you know your support system no longer have you in their best priorities, and growing alone will be tougher than the era when I grow together with my friends. I know I thrive better with my friends along, but I also understand that my growth isn't their responsibility... But yeah. Thank you for this vlog.
I can't think of anyone, artist or otherwise, whose life goes along exactly as planned - you have talent, you're very hard working, you're practical, and you seem to be a very fun and sweet person - never let go of your dreams and never be so hard on yourself that you think you failed somehow - you never know where your road will lead - I was reading about this music group that not only failed a big audition, but were told they had no future in music - it was of course the Beatles - so believe and keep after your dreams - that's what life is made of - btw, is the Munch with a duck going to be called, not the Scream, but the Squawk? -
Welcome back and thanks so much for being open about this. It's something I've thought about and I have a friend who did the same thing but now is back working. I love your positivity about this because it can sometimes discourage others but I think you can leverage your job to help aid your business.
this was really reassuring to watch. i'm in a similar boat. i wanna quit my job to pursue my passions full time but every time i take some time off, even for a few days or weeks, i feel an insane amount of stress and usually don't leave my room or talk to people for days. it's good to have a balance of working 3-4 days a week! :)
As someone who will likely always have a 9-5 (for me 7-3) for the stability reasons... def don't feel bad about going back! I honestly look forward to you showing more about juggling the two, it's inspiring :) I'm definitely the same way on the self-motivation thing. I like being needed LOL makes me feel helpful.
Gabi I'm really proud of you! You went all in and now you're figuring out what levels you want things in your life, that's a success! I had a side hustle small business for a little over a year and it was NOT for me, when I got a 9-5 people encouraged me to keep pursuing it but I was truly so much happier! Being able to clock in and clock out, and to have stability, ended up really mattering to me. I still have creative pursuits but there's less pressure and I can have fun with it. You're still an artist and your identity as a person has not changed!
Don't quit your dreams, even if you end up not pursuing them the way you imagined. I started my own VA business 6 years ago after 20 years in a corporate office because I needed more time to pursue my dreams and I felt trapped by a regular 9-5. It's not always easy cause I have to find new clients from time to time, and it does create more overwhelm with everything I have to do, but I get to have a taste of the freedom I was looking for. There is no glamour in what I do, but it's safe enough to pay the bills and it fuels my creative projects, until maybe one day one will take off and I'll be able to make a living from it. But for now, that's the way it is. Your art is amazing and you are even more amazing. What is the best for you will find you.
You did not fail, you tried something that didn’t go as planned, and that’s okay. It’s very brave what you did and kept your word of being a full time artist. You are still very successful. You have a full time job and part-time business, and you are doing great! We love seeing your growth and journey. I’m proud of all you have tried and all you have accomplished thus far.
You did what you needed to! You’re doing what’s necessary for you. You can still say you did it and who knows where your journey can take you! You’re doing big things. You honestly inspire me to get creative again. Keep at it 🦆❤
Thanks for posting this! There are so many posts about leaving your job, but this is the first one I’ve ever read about going back. Congratulations on choosing an earning option that will provide you a greater sense of peace and stability and hopefully even joy.
It’s so brave to change your mind and not stay stuck in something that doesn’t make you happy. You’re such an inspiration! And such a creative mind, I’m sure you’ll find your way, whatever it will be (and even though it changes over the years!) 😊 love from France!
Thank you so much for sharing with us! I’ve concluded that I have to have structure and stuff like that for myself as well. I wish you nothing but the best moving forward.
havent watched the video yet, but please dont take this as a failure. having your own store is HARD work. An now your store is all ready, you did the hardest part. now you can have a job that pays for your life while you keep on working on your shop or whatever makes you happy!. don't give up, you've got this!!
I quit my 9-5 six years ago without another job. And then I used that time to pursue my own creative activities. I also had anxieties about stability, existential crisis. I actually took on a part-time job which is a 4-day week gig. Then an opportunity came and I returned to my old 9-5 but on a full-time basis. 6 years on, I’m still here, I grew, got promoted but my creative and artistic practice is suffering. I want to pursue art full-time but the anxieties and existential crisis are holding me back. It is totally OK to go back, quit, etc. Do whatever works for you! Mental health is important every day. I agree to be grateful for what you have now. It’s something I try to do everyday. :)
New subscriber here! I also work a 9-5 as an artist, it’s ok!!! I’m actually so proud that you tried something different and happy your job is so chill with letting you back ✨
One of the things I love about you Gabi is your honesty, the way you just lay stuff out on the table regardless. You didn’t have to tell us you had gone back to work, but instead you invite us into your journey, all of it. The older I get, the more I value honesty and truth. Keep doing what you’re doing. You are refreshing 😊
I quit my job at a similar time as your journey and also took a 6 month break! I didn’t have a set goal in mind and allowed myself to figure out the next step as I go and found myself back at a 9-5 job. I don’t think about what it all means too much because at the end of the day, I felt more happy doing this. My new job allows me more freedom to continue pursuing my creative hobbies so I’m happy! I love your videos, thank you for sharing your journey with us!
Welcome back Gabby! It's inspiring to see you embrace this journey and share your thoughts so openly. Your art and creativity matter, and finding balance is key. Excited for what's ahead and can't wait to see more of your amazing work! Please keep sharing
Not at all a failure because you tried and learned about your needs. You are so lucky/blessed that your last employer took you back, and that you had that safety net. That's not always possible, but I'm glad that was an option for you. You will take all of your experiences and learning, and try another approach one day. You are young, so you have plenty of time to try and try again. Life changes quickly, and it's healthy for you to be flexible along the way. Please don't be hard on yourself - be proud that you took a risk that was meaningful to you.
Proud of you for doing the things that you need to do! I tried doing art full time, and wow it was STRESSFUL. I'm much happier with art + a part time job! :)
I appreciate you making this video to share your going back to work story. In the height of the pandemic, I quit my job to 1. be able to do remote learning with my kids when schools were closed and 2. (bonus) focus on my writing. While I achieved a lot of writing goals and put in a lot of work trying to find an agent, I did not achieve any commercial success with my writing. Which was disappointing, but it is what it is. 4 years later, schools being back open full time for half that, I am now looking to go back to a more traditional job. I'll always have my writing as a hobby and maybe even break into the market one day. But the truth is, like you mentioned, I also had a lot of trouble managing my own time during my "chasing my dreams" phase! I didn't write nearly as much as I would've liked to, but then I did have a good time enjoying the flexible of my long work break. I'm lucky I was able to chase my dreams in that way at all... and learned a new appreciation for people who actually grind at their passions to make it viable job. I am not that type of person and that's okay.
Yoz! Glad to meet another like me. I tried myself to go full time with doing my art and found I was also feeling the same way. So I got myself a part time job at a movie theater. Granted it recently has been hard work on me and been feeling I need to take a break from doing art to do some deep cleaning on days off of the house I live in and get more rest cause of it all. Maybe someday soon I will go back to working on the art for my shop, but for now been doodling ideas and jotting down some ideas I will be using for later.
you tried something and it was different than you thought. I'm so happy for you that you didn't look at it like you had to kill the whole dream. I just quit the job i was at for 2.5 years to do the art thing but im super open to it being a 6 month trial as well haha. ITS VERY SCAREY 😨
Had the exact same thing as you. Went back to my 9-5 and feel so much happier with my life. The price of stability and an encouraging team is unbelievable. Feels weird saying that lol
Yooo as someone who did a year off for art and returned also, a glimpse into the future: That year has propelled my work in ways I couldn’t have anticipated. Everything builds. Am currently doing it again, this time at a bigger scale, after 2.5 years back in the 9-5 work force. Showing work nationally (and in talks for international 🫡) now. Your work is solid af. No matter what the inner critic says, none of your time or effort was wasted, and that will be more than evident in the long term. Congrats on the return! 🎉❤️
Thank you for making this video and putting out there that it is okay to go back, it is okay to go a different route! You are my hero! And I have no doubt you know so much more now than you did previously and can keep attacking with more knowledge moving forward. I used to weep at the idea of having to juggle both my art and my fulltime job but now, I actually think it will help so much with long term motivation, funding for my art and generally keeping things stable. What I am aiming for, is more flexibility to help balance the two.
So proud of you for making a choice that balances your mental health and your artistic journey! I always think of what Elizabeth Gilbert wrote in Big Magic - it's a lot of stifling pressure to put on your art to expect it to provide for you, instead we shield our creativity, funding it, providing for it like our inner child deserves. We are always so much more creative when we're less anxious.
this is the first vid of yours that im watching and just wanted to pop into this section to say that i think ur so brave to go try smth new and also be brave enough to admit it wasn't for you! i think life is all about experimenting and exploring and so many people are too caught up in fear and self-doubt to even experiment, so huge kudos to you for doing that :))
I needed to see this today. I start a new job on Monday and it’s my first 9-5 since my business started to tank, hoping to find new avenues with a lot less stress after this new path!
Experimenting is life! I wish people would understand it's not failure : it's interacting with life in a real way. To do, go for something, reassess, work again...this is how we grow and learn
As someone with more life experience, it's only a fail when you allow it to hold you back. I failed at my own business and let it mire me for a good five years before I realized no one but me cared that deeply about it. I woke up one day and realized that letting it hold me back was the true failure, and things have gotten much better since then. So, going back to your job, moving forward and finding your own path to keep doing what you love - all successes in my book!
I wanna say, you’re still a big inspiration for me! It really is tough to be self-motivated and to build out your own structure. I admire that you still took the chance and your art has developed so much which is so cool. I’m still trying to get into the habit of drawing and figuring out what creative outlet i want to stick to for a while. It’d be great to start an art business one day, and maybe I’ll get there. From your video though, it reminds me that it’s a journey with its ups and downs. We don’t know what would happen, but even if we don’t, it never hurts to try
ikr i retired at 52 and honestly, I wish I’d done it sooner. The 9-to-5 grind always steals your freedom for a paycheck that barely scratches the surface. My advice? If you’re in your late 30s or early 40s, start saving for FIRE now (Financial Independence, Retire Early.) And if you’re in your 50s, invest smartly and break free from relying on your job. Market trends, like the Trump Effect, have made millions for many, including me. Stay focused, stay consistent, and remember financial freedom is within reach if you make it a priority.
Working with Lorrie Greta Hillard , a financial advisor, was a game changer. She helped me refine my savings strategy, including retirement planning, and provided expert guidance on investments and budgeting to maximize my savings.
Hi! First off, I love your channel, I've been following your journey for quite a while. You're not alone in where your'e at, this time a decade I was exactly where you're at, I quit a job to chase my full time art dreams and i was too addled to keep going and figuring out how to survive. Since then I've taken a lot of "day-job" paths, but it hit me a while back that I'll also ALWAYS be a full time artist, because I'm constantly thinking about, planning, and working on my art. We get very trapped in the modern, capitalistic meaning of being a full time artist, and we're conditioned to think that if we have to supplement ourselves in any other ways then we've failed and that simply isn't the case. Artists shouldn't have to suffer for their craft (another unhealthy myth) and it's very admirable to be strong enough to take that look around and say "this isn't working quite right, I need to change something." You're doing great! You'll continue to do great and as a fellow artist day-job haver, I'm super proud of you!
3:42 Hi Gabi! I’m going to pause the video here to comment that I don’t think it’s lame to need external structure. I’m currently taking a break from work to learn programming (funnily enough you’re one of the people who inspired me to learn to code) and I’m going back to work in January and I’m happy about it! I need to have to get up at a certain time because I can’t manage to motivate myself to get a routine otherwise. Needless to say having money stability is enough of a reason to go back to a 9-5 job if the lack of stability was affecting your mental health. You gave yourself a chance and there’s zero wrongs with that!
As someone who stares at screens all the time I highly recommend blue light glasses they help a lot! I add them to my already prescribed glasses and it’s really nice!
This hits close to home. I'm currently jobless but I want to do something else aside from my real work. If adult responsibilty and financial status isn't important, I'll just stay at home doing stuff that I love (playing and focusing on my hobbies).
Life is all about changing our minds and only the brave ones actually do it. Way to follow your intuition!! I think art can be more fun and rewarding when there is the secure financial stability behind it.
This year I am learning that I work better with others who want to see me succeed and not fail. If they believe in you then I'm more likely to succeed and not feel like I'm not good enough.
Hi Gaby! I did exact the same thing, leaving a successful career and a stable job to pursue my dream to be an artist/ designer. Now, 1 year later, I am looking for a conventional job again (but remote). It is very unrealistic to try to maintain the same lifestyle we had at a conventional job with the money we make from art. Let's be real, I also have rent to pay, bills pilling up and a dog to take care of. At the end of the day you just have to do what feels right for you and what it takes for you to live a comfortable life at least. You're not less of an artist because you had to get back to your 9-5 job. Remember that progress is not always linear and it looks different for each person. Sending you love from Brazil
Following you through this journey with the ups and downs is so grounding and inspiring. Keep doing what you wanna do but take the steps you need to feel secure in your choices girl. Everyone will be waiting here for you no matter what. 💜💜💜
Good on you for being honest with yourself when things aren't going the way you expected. Reality is, starting your own business and being able to pay the bills is a very hard combination and usually things don't take off right from the get-go. Having your own business is often glorified, I feel. Your experience is not a failure if you learned from it. If you can time manage, you can make a 9-5 work with your business 😊 I work a 9-5, often a 9-6 and I see it as a means to fund what I love; my art, my apartment and its vibe and my cooking which I love so much. It has good and bad days but at the end I'm very grateful to have a decent job in this modern day world because lots of people don't have the privilege that I have. You'll be fine 👍
Hi one of the first subs here 💛 Don't think I ever commented before but it's been so refreshing to follow your journey. As an academic who loves their job (=passion) but suffers from the insecurity of temporary positions, I would say having regular pay and job security is more important to our mental health (and life in general... hello rent) than the hustle culture cares to admit. Super proud of you and looking forward to watch and support you on the next steps on your career and life 💚🦆
I appreciate so much you posting this and sharing your thoughts. And it’s totally okay and normal to try something and then come back to some things, or change the direction, or just take a break, right? Let’s normalize it. And… the journey is not over. I’m sending you hugs, thank you for your videos🌸
I did full time streaming for 4 years out of the 11 years I’ve been streaming. It was harder than a full time job. I was so happy to come back to a consistent paycheck. I love streaming part time
I just found your page and love your journey! I just quit my job last year to start a small business and it’s definitely a very hard journey mentally. Can’t wait to see what happens in this next chapter you🎉
Going back to 9-5 is okay when that serves you and give you peace and comfort. 8 hours of structural work, and the rest is up to you and your artistic mind. Future will be what your future self decides. You probably represent most normal young remote worker lives.
Having your day job does not make you less of an artist. The cash flow will give you choices of creative projects that you want to pursue. Be well and best of luck to you going forward.
I've been juggling music and a 9-5 job for about a decade, and at first I used to think I'm "lesser" than my colleagues who just put their entire life into their art.... Girl, now that I'm over 30 with a decent job in IT, it hit me that I've become the real winner. Having a stable income, clarity in your future, skills that I can depend on, and the ability to say NO to whatever offers/contracts/ideas that I do not like is a privilege that many of my fellow local musicians cannot enjoy!! 6 months, in terms of chasing such a big dream in such a competitive field, is more like a START, you have not failed! We just gotta admit that for 99.999% of people, even those 6 months without a stable income is ALREADY far too long. Let alone investing YEARS in your art and skills without any guarantee that it will all work out. And no matter how amazing you are, no matter how professional you are, there are some things that are out of our control. For most artists it won't ever be "art or 9-5", but always "combining art and 9-5".
thank you for posting this and sharing your vulnerability! while i’m super inspired by the current “quit your 9-5” movement, realistically i have a lifestyle with bills that simply cannot accommodate something outside of 40 hour employment. so i’m managing and trying to balance the professional and the creative until the creative can be my career. that said, i’ve gone back to a previous job plenty of times before when finances and life dictated. it was humbling every time but i was also grateful to have cultivated a positive enough relationship to be welcomed back into something familiar and less stressful or unpredictable. life doesn’t have to be all burned bridges, and i loved seeing that opportunity for you 💜
Love that you're sharing this part of reality! I'm in the same boat, kind of. I tried to get my small business to the next level in the past year, but it hasn't worked out as I hoped. So I'm now applying for office jobs again as well (parttime though, so I'm very lucky there). It does feel like failing a bit, and I keep wondering if I have tried enough. But I'm also excited to feel less pressure and have a stable income again. Might get the creative (and entrepreneurial) juices flowing more anyways haha.
I spent a year and a half chasing my dream and working as a freelance illustrator. But had to get a full time job to pay for my education. So seeing this video made me feel a little more relaxed as I now know someone with a similar story. It’s okay to change or in your case more like correct your path a little bit (you’re still pursuing art career). Days are long but years are fast ❤
I feel like I can see the disappointment in your eyes throughout this video. Whether it’s disappointment in yourself, or in having to go back to work, or having to tell the world after telling the world you were chasing your dreams, or it not being exactly the way you thought it would be, or something else. Please don’t be so hard on yourself! Life is a journey and it’s full of lessons that we all have to learn in our own way and in our own time. Be proud of your efforts thus far and just do the best you can ❤ sorry if I’m way off base, but I just felt the need to say something ❤️ sending all the good vibes, good energy, positivity, love, and good luck your way for this new branch of your journey!! ❤️
thanks for watching! Let me know if you have any thoughts or questions on the whole "quit your 9-5 to pursue your dreams" thing or my ~employment journey~ hehe. Life changes are tricky, but I know it'll get easier with time ❤
Honestly I'm on the verge of quitting my dreams to join the 9-5 :)
My dad gave me some amazing advice he got from a successful creative who said "It's not what you do from 9-5. It's what you do from 5-9". Keep going, keep creating, and your business will grow.
Honestly as a creative/freelance photographer who has a hybrid 9ish to 4ish job. I love having a consistent job that I don’t have to worry about when my next gig will be.
Also I’m curious what do you do for your 9-5?
Can you please share the name of the company?
I am looking for a remote job. But there are many fake ads😢
I'm curious is there a deciding factor that made you finally go back to your job? I would somehow think that having a big audience on social media like you would make things go smoothly, I hope you could enlighten us more on the behind-the-scenes and 'reality' of doing it fulltime! Really love how open you are on your vlogs, thanks for sharing!
So here is the thing, try not label yourself one way or another. You are still chasing your dream of being an artist. The only difference is now you have a full-time job to add to your days' equation. I was a full-time artist even though I had a full-time job for 10 years. Lets look at it this way, now you are more free financially to paint and draw pieces that are exactly what you want without worries to sell them. Full-time? you are an artist 24/7. that is who you are. You are just doing what you need to do for financial reasons, no shame in that. Please keep expressing yourself and being the amazing creative person you are.
wow that was such a lovely and encouraging message. For some reason, I felt you spoke to me! lol... Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the subject. I think it will help a lot of us.
@@Fiveoneandahalf Never put pressure on ourselves, the world has no problem trying to discourage artists from creating consistently. Keep going and never worry about labels.
this is such a beautiful way to look at it. thanks for the new perspective
@@irishamarie 🧡 We create because of the beauty and wonder that is within all of us, such a reason to celebrate and pick up that brush or pencil.
thank you for this 🧡
It's okay to go back. It's okay to have work be the thing that fuels your hobby or your store.
This! I tried to turn my passions and hobbies into a sustainable lifestyle and it didn't work. But some of that bleeds into my 9-to-5 and I still pursue opportunities outside of that job that tickle my interests and challenge me in different ways. You can have the best of both worlds, and working a 9-to-5 may not be forever but a just for now. Gotta live, gotta eat, and gotta learn how to play nicely in corporate worlds. All useful for chasing your passions.
As someone who also has been trying for YEARS (LITERALLY 5 YEARS, *2/5 SERIOUS YEARS*) to make my career dreams come true, I'm at this point in my life where I think I need to shift my perspective on what I want in my life, and how I want my life to look. I'll admit, like a lot of people, I think I got caught up in the romantic vision we see online of people pursuing creative fields online, and dropping everything to do it. I think if you can make it work, that's amazing, but it's not the norm. I have my teaching degree and I have been working as a sub for these past few years, and rejecting more full-time positions bc I wanted to work/pursue my graphic design passion. I'm SO proud of the progress and skills I have learned with design these last years, but financially, it hasnt been hitting. I'm beginning to rethink what I want, in terms of the type of challenge and struggle I want to pursue in my life. Truthfully, it's not sexy always stressing about money, worrying about going out with friends and micromanaging every dollar. I won't ever stop design, I feel it's in my blood. But I'm beginning to see that perhaps it might be in my life in a different way than I initially thought. It might be something I do on the side instead of being in a full-time office environment. Maybe that's okay too.
Seriously!!❤
Working remote and four day work week!? Guuuuuurl you’re winning!!!!
fr 😆could use that free day to work on your personal business in the background
I don't see failure here at all, I see strength and resilience. Your honesty is so refreshing and figuring out what works for you and going for it is absolutely a good thing.
Most small businesses take 2+ years to become profitable and stable. I hope you are proud of yourself for taking a step towards your dreams! Even though it may not have been what you expected it doesn't mean that journey is over for you. We love your art and cannot wait to see how you grow in this new chapter. Wishing you all the best
Please don’t feel like a failure - I’ve just subscribed because content creators and artists who also work a 9-5 are far more relatable, imo. Congrats and best wishes!
This is the truth
Honestly true. I’ve followed a few whose whole shtick is that they are relatable, and then they got big enough to quit their jobs, and basically lost all of their following since a full-time content creator isn’t relatable to anyone except other content creators.
Girly went through the same thing. I got a bachelors degree in social work and started working in the field. After feeling ''burned-out'' for the third time in three different jobs I had to face the facts and realize that I had to start over. I had to quit the field totally because I felt taking care of people is what I love to do in my personal life, it's not what I want to do profesionally. Honestly, I just want to make the money to support myself and find a job that has a good workplace environment and a place where I can be myself. Right now i'm working around 16 hours at a lunchroom and while I can sometimes still feel like I'm failing: I know this is my way and I'll figure it out. What you think works and is the best for you changes all the time and that is totally fine. This life we have is to try and have a good time and whatever that is at the moment is fine for you.
Social work is so freakin draining! You should be proud that you got back out there and are trying something new! Proud of you 💜
I love your story ❤ I think you are doing so great!!
Im going through the exact same thing! also just finished my social work bachelors degree and after I got my first big girl job I felt so drained. I felt like I failed and currently am looking for something out of the field entirely, I quit my social work corporate position and work as a daycare teacher atm lol it’s not a forever thing im just looking for something that I will love.
You are actually speaking my life right now. I did the same. I left my full time job of 8 years to chase my dreams (start a home bakery business). 6 months later, I have to return to a job. I didn't quit thinking this wouldn't potentially happen, but I was hoping I wouldn't have to. It does feel like a failure, but I wouldn't have known the reality of things until I did it. Even though I lost the security and stability of my old job, I would never have done the hard parts of starting my business if I didn't leave. I took a scary risk, and I'm still here--though broke, I don't expect it to be permanent; it'll just be hard for a while. Praying for all the ones who said yes to their passions and will endure the journey. Because it's what you love, you will succeed.
I did the opposite, its completely ok to say “oops” and realize if we’re going to be forced to work (why the heck can’t we dilly dally all the time as we were created to!!!!) we need to find a place we can feel the most comfortable/stable. If that’s a 9-5, that’s ok! I was the opposite: because of chronic illness, a standard schedule with strict regulations to follow didn’t work for my employer so I had to fall back on my business again. I love my freedom, but boy do I miss that subsidized healthcare and various benefits 😅 each has their own pros and cons and I hope no one is criticizing you for doing what you need to do. And that goes for anyone reading this!
This is why in only work part time. 3 days a week somewhere else. I am secure in the job but still follow my dreams ❤
I truly admiring you for giving it your all for 6 months, using that as a learning experience, and realizing it’s not exactly what you want at this time. I know it seems like everyone glorifies running your own business but it is hard and there is no shame in craving some stability and predictability, especially when it’s a direct link to your stress and health. Who knows what the future will bring, maybe art will work better full-time at another time in the future. Thank you for sharing the ups and downs, everyone always emphasizes the “good” but rarely does anyone share the true struggles.
aw thank you monica!! It truly is such a personal choice. And I'm grateful I get to share my experience here :)
Girl! I’m in the same boat. Quit my job a month ago because of burnout and wanting to pursue more creative careers. It takes guts to do what you did. The fact that you tried and you still have your business, that’s still a win. 🎉
I went back to my job after freelancing graphic design 2 years ago and it's actually given me the headspace to be more creative and make content that actually helps people, instead of making content for marketing because I need the money... I still do some client work but there's not that pressure, ya know? I'm so glad creators like you exist to normalise the ups and downs of being an artist
Hello, hello! I just wanted to say that the reason why I started watching your content was the idea of being able to juggle between having a full time job AND being able to get "rewarded" for your artistry BONUS yt content creation. Relying only on the artistic environment for making a living is very scary and so, this kind of life you are presenting now (and the one before leaving your job) is actually what I wish to achieve. So, for me, as a watcher, you coming back to a secure job is actually a win. Hope you stay strong and get to relax. I wish you the best! ✨
As someone who used to freelance and had to go back to my job i so agree! Creators like her are one of the reasons I know a life like this is possible. It's ok to want stability AND a life where you can truly express yourself and do your art. I love this community :)
There's NO SHAME in having to do what you have to do when it comes to surviving. I work in the animation industry and things are tough right now, with a lot of my peers having to take jobs outside the industry to make ends meet. Sometimes the world just isn't kind to creatives (new and veteran), but your time will come and I'm delighted to see your spirit is still very much intact. Also, your "The Scream" piece gave me a good hearty chuckle. Wishing you the best!
Hey! I totally understand and can relate. I'm ending my sabbatical soon and going back to the 9-5. I realized I needed structure in my life and a stable income while working on my passion projects as a side hustle instead. Life is so tricky and weird! Hope you're feeling better!
I hope you don't feel like a failure. Doing art on the side doesn't make you less of an artist. I can relate. I quit my job 6 months ago because it depressed me and that affected my other job, my art! And now while I feel more relaxed, my art job isn't doing well too. Sometimes it feels like I can't win. It's stressful in both situations in different ways. But we can slowly figure things out. You can do it 🙌🏻
omg this. sometimes i think “the grass is always greener” but then i realize that the grass is brown and dry on both sides 😅
Oftentimes people get caught up on "The sunk cost fallacy" (which is the tendency to continue investing time, money, or effort into something even when it's not working out, even though it would be better to give up. This can lead to irrational decisions that are not in your best interest.)
It's definitely not a waste of time to follow your dreams, but regardless, it seems to me you're not getting caught up in that general idea that you have to force it to work and are doing what is best for your current mental health, and that is amazing!
Wow you don’t know how much this video sort of validated my own feelings since I had a very similar experience to yours. I went full time as an artist for 4 months after my art instagram started doing well earlier this year. I thought the stress would subside after the first month or two but it ended up just getting even worse and made it so tough for me to even pick up the pencil. Going back to my part time job has given me stability and a sense of purpose again while I work on my art the other half of the time.
Anyways, I hope you have enjoyed being back at your job and I hope that we can both find ways to make and share our art in ways that don’t stress us the hell out 😭
As someone who also has been trying for YEARS (LITERALLY 5 YEARS, *2/5 SERIOUS YEARS*) to make my career dreams come true, I'm at this point in my life where I think I need to shift my perspective on what I want in my life, and how I want my life to look. I'll admit, like a lot of people, I think I got caught up in the romantic vision we see online of people pursuing creative fields online, and dropping everything to do it. I think if you can make it work, that's amazing, but it's not the norm. I have my teaching degree and I have been working as a sub for these past few years, and rejecting more full-time positions bc I wanted to work/pursue my graphic design passion. I'm SO proud of the progress and skills I have learned with design these last years, but financially, it hasnt been hitting. I'm beginning to rethink what I want, in terms of the type of challenge and struggle I want to pursue in my life. Truthfully, it's not sexy always stressing about money, worrying about going out with friends and micromanaging every dollar. I won't ever stop design, I feel it's in my blood. But I'm beginning to see that perhaps it might be in my life in a different way than I initially thought. It might be something I do on the side instead of being in a full-time office environment. Maybe that's okay too.
I appreciate the transparency with the health insurance. A real thing that is boring, confusing, and absoluetly required for people to be aware of.
It’s nice that you had a job right after! The job market is TOUGH
That’s EXACTLY what I was thinking. People several months unemployed after applying for hundreds of jobs. You are VERY fortunate. Keep pursuing your dreams!!!!
Oh man, thank you so so much for sharing this, It took me around 4/5 years to go solo completely as a artist and I think going back will actually give you more freedom to experiment and explore which is a good space to be in, I had a full time and even two part time jobs at the same time to supplement my income, and it took me aggggeeeeeees to become a little more stable to the point of full time employment, YOU GOT THIS! 🌷 Have fun discovering and being on this journey!
Gabi this is so valid and real af. I'm a full time graphic designer and after doing that for a few years I literally had to get on antidepressants because having adhd and needing to have a 9-5 is so 😅 And you are still an inspiration to me as someone who wants to slowly build an art business.
That's so interesting to hear! Are you saying that graphic design caused you to go on meds? I work in education, but I've been trying to pursue graphic design for years as a full-time career, but I'm finding it incredibly difficult to get into an office job...
Thanks for being so real! I'm also an engineer/artist and it was so felt when you mentioned external accountability. It's been a super hard truth to realize I'm not the best with self motivation.
i love that you made a vlog surrounding this big undecided, inbetween, transitional point in your life. it's comforting to see someone be honest and vulnerable. and its also super beautiful and powerful to document it, and embrace the obstacles life throws at us 💖
I went through the same thing when I quit my job, and I felt constantly stressed and anxious all the time 😵💫
I've been doing my day job and then my lil art on the side still because it does bring me so much joy, but lately I've been so exhausted just trying to keep up with both, and questioning if it's all worth the exhaustion 🥺
Thank you Gabi for sharing your experience with us & letting us into your world ♥♥♥
Watching this vlog made me feel a little less alone. I felt like I was somewhat thriving and growing in my creative venture, only to fall (after certain circumstances such as cyberbullied and losing years of my music portfolio (IG) after being hacked) and life has pushed me to shift to my focus on my 9-5 corporate job. After a while it gets hard to come back to my creative side due to exhaustion or thought of doing creative endeavours alone (all my creative friends continued their journey while i'm stuck here uninspired). I'm slowly wanting to get back up, and I'm hoping I'll be able to reconnect to my creative side and ventures again. It's scarier when you know your support system no longer have you in their best priorities, and growing alone will be tougher than the era when I grow together with my friends. I know I thrive better with my friends along, but I also understand that my growth isn't their responsibility... But yeah. Thank you for this vlog.
I can't think of anyone, artist or otherwise, whose life goes along exactly as planned - you have talent, you're very hard working, you're practical, and you seem to be a very fun and sweet person - never let go of your dreams and never be so hard on yourself that you think you failed somehow - you never know where your road will lead - I was reading about this music group that not only failed a big audition, but were told they had no future in music - it was of course the Beatles - so believe and keep after your dreams - that's what life is made of - btw, is the Munch with a duck going to be called, not the Scream, but the Squawk? -
Welcome back and thanks so much for being open about this. It's something I've thought about and I have a friend who did the same thing but now is back working. I love your positivity about this because it can sometimes discourage others but I think you can leverage your job to help aid your business.
this was really reassuring to watch. i'm in a similar boat. i wanna quit my job to pursue my passions full time but every time i take some time off, even for a few days or weeks, i feel an insane amount of stress and usually don't leave my room or talk to people for days. it's good to have a balance of working 3-4 days a week! :)
As someone who will likely always have a 9-5 (for me 7-3) for the stability reasons... def don't feel bad about going back! I honestly look forward to you showing more about juggling the two, it's inspiring :) I'm definitely the same way on the self-motivation thing. I like being needed LOL makes me feel helpful.
YOU rock girl. You still pursue your dream! Even though it’s more difficult you are there!
Omaga working remote 9-5 is legit like more time to do art with financial security 🎉 you are winning!
Gabi I'm really proud of you! You went all in and now you're figuring out what levels you want things in your life, that's a success! I had a side hustle small business for a little over a year and it was NOT for me, when I got a 9-5 people encouraged me to keep pursuing it but I was truly so much happier! Being able to clock in and clock out, and to have stability, ended up really mattering to me. I still have creative pursuits but there's less pressure and I can have fun with it. You're still an artist and your identity as a person has not changed!
Don't quit your dreams, even if you end up not pursuing them the way you imagined. I started my own VA business 6 years ago after 20 years in a corporate office because I needed more time to pursue my dreams and I felt trapped by a regular 9-5. It's not always easy cause I have to find new clients from time to time, and it does create more overwhelm with everything I have to do, but I get to have a taste of the freedom I was looking for. There is no glamour in what I do, but it's safe enough to pay the bills and it fuels my creative projects, until maybe one day one will take off and I'll be able to make a living from it. But for now, that's the way it is. Your art is amazing and you are even more amazing. What is the best for you will find you.
You did not fail, you tried something that didn’t go as planned, and that’s okay. It’s very brave what you did and kept your word of being a full time artist. You are still very successful. You have a full time job and part-time business, and you are doing great! We love seeing your growth and journey. I’m proud of all you have tried and all you have accomplished thus far.
You did what you needed to! You’re doing what’s necessary for you. You can still say you did it and who knows where your journey can take you! You’re doing big things. You honestly inspire me to get creative again. Keep at it 🦆❤
Thanks for posting this! There are so many posts about leaving your job, but this is the first one I’ve ever read about going back. Congratulations on choosing an earning option that will provide you a greater sense of peace and stability and hopefully even joy.
It’s so brave to change your mind and not stay stuck in something that doesn’t make you happy. You’re such an inspiration! And such a creative mind, I’m sure you’ll find your way, whatever it will be (and even though it changes over the years!) 😊 love from France!
Thank you so much for sharing with us! I’ve concluded that I have to have structure and stuff like that for myself as well. I wish you nothing but the best moving forward.
This is such a refreshing video, made me miss vlogs as a whole. Thanks for making this cool video and sharing your experience with us
havent watched the video yet, but please dont take this as a failure. having your own store is HARD work. An now your store is all ready, you did the hardest part. now you can have a job that pays for your life while you keep on working on your shop or whatever makes you happy!. don't give up, you've got this!!
okay THIS is so true literally I spent a full two months on opening that dang art shop haha
I quit my 9-5 six years ago without another job. And then I used that time to pursue my own creative activities. I also had anxieties about stability, existential crisis. I actually took on a part-time job which is a 4-day week gig. Then an opportunity came and I returned to my old 9-5 but on a full-time basis. 6 years on, I’m still here, I grew, got promoted but my creative and artistic practice is suffering. I want to pursue art full-time but the anxieties and existential crisis are holding me back. It is totally OK to go back, quit, etc. Do whatever works for you! Mental health is important every day. I agree to be grateful for what you have now. It’s something I try to do everyday. :)
New subscriber here! I also work a 9-5 as an artist, it’s ok!!! I’m actually so proud that you tried something different and happy your job is so chill with letting you back ✨
One of the things I love about you Gabi is your honesty, the way you just lay stuff out on the table regardless. You didn’t have to tell us you had gone back to work, but instead you invite us into your journey, all of it. The older I get, the more I value honesty and truth. Keep doing what you’re doing. You are refreshing 😊
You are so real and relatable for this. I think its great that you're still doing stuff for your art business and that you didnt give up ❤.
I quit my job at a similar time as your journey and also took a 6 month break! I didn’t have a set goal in mind and allowed myself to figure out the next step as I go and found myself back at a 9-5 job. I don’t think about what it all means too much because at the end of the day, I felt more happy doing this. My new job allows me more freedom to continue pursuing my creative hobbies so I’m happy! I love your videos, thank you for sharing your journey with us!
It’s ok to go back. It’s ok to stop. Or change your mind. Don’t let anyone tell you what’s best for u my loves ❤
Welcome back Gabby! It's inspiring to see you embrace this journey and share your thoughts so openly. Your art and creativity matter, and finding balance is key. Excited for what's ahead and can't wait to see more of your amazing work! Please keep sharing
Not at all a failure because you tried and learned about your needs. You are so lucky/blessed that your last employer took you back, and that you had that safety net. That's not always possible, but I'm glad that was an option for you. You will take all of your experiences and learning, and try another approach one day. You are young, so you have plenty of time to try and try again. Life changes quickly, and it's healthy for you to be flexible along the way. Please don't be hard on yourself - be proud that you took a risk that was meaningful to you.
Proud of you for doing the things that you need to do! I tried doing art full time, and wow it was STRESSFUL. I'm much happier with art + a part time job! :)
I appreciate you making this video to share your going back to work story. In the height of the pandemic, I quit my job to 1. be able to do remote learning with my kids when schools were closed and 2. (bonus) focus on my writing. While I achieved a lot of writing goals and put in a lot of work trying to find an agent, I did not achieve any commercial success with my writing. Which was disappointing, but it is what it is. 4 years later, schools being back open full time for half that, I am now looking to go back to a more traditional job. I'll always have my writing as a hobby and maybe even break into the market one day. But the truth is, like you mentioned, I also had a lot of trouble managing my own time during my "chasing my dreams" phase! I didn't write nearly as much as I would've liked to, but then I did have a good time enjoying the flexible of my long work break. I'm lucky I was able to chase my dreams in that way at all... and learned a new appreciation for people who actually grind at their passions to make it viable job. I am not that type of person and that's okay.
Yoz! Glad to meet another like me. I tried myself to go full time with doing my art and found I was also feeling the same way. So I got myself a part time job at a movie theater. Granted it recently has been hard work on me and been feeling I need to take a break from doing art to do some deep cleaning on days off of the house I live in and get more rest cause of it all. Maybe someday soon I will go back to working on the art for my shop, but for now been doodling ideas and jotting down some ideas I will be using for later.
you tried something and it was different than you thought. I'm so happy for you that you didn't look at it like you had to kill the whole dream.
I just quit the job i was at for 2.5 years to do the art thing but im super open to it being a 6 month trial as well haha. ITS VERY SCAREY 😨
Had the exact same thing as you. Went back to my 9-5 and feel so much happier with my life. The price of stability and an encouraging team is unbelievable. Feels weird saying that lol
Yooo as someone who did a year off for art and returned also, a glimpse into the future: That year has propelled my work in ways I couldn’t have anticipated. Everything builds. Am currently doing it again, this time at a bigger scale, after 2.5 years back in the 9-5 work force. Showing work nationally (and in talks for international 🫡) now. Your work is solid af. No matter what the inner critic says, none of your time or effort was wasted, and that will be more than evident in the long term. Congrats on the return! 🎉❤️
Thank you for making this video and putting out there that it is okay to go back, it is okay to go a different route! You are my hero! And I have no doubt you know so much more now than you did previously and can keep attacking with more knowledge moving forward. I used to weep at the idea of having to juggle both my art and my fulltime job but now, I actually think it will help so much with long term motivation, funding for my art and generally keeping things stable. What I am aiming for, is more flexibility to help balance the two.
She gives me April vibes and I am all here for it. I love her.
So proud of you for making a choice that balances your mental health and your artistic journey! I always think of what Elizabeth Gilbert wrote in Big Magic - it's a lot of stifling pressure to put on your art to expect it to provide for you, instead we shield our creativity, funding it, providing for it like our inner child deserves. We are always so much more creative when we're less anxious.
this is the first vid of yours that im watching and just wanted to pop into this section to say that i think ur so brave to go try smth new and also be brave enough to admit it wasn't for you! i think life is all about experimenting and exploring and so many people are too caught up in fear and self-doubt to even experiment, so huge kudos to you for doing that :))
I needed to see this today. I start a new job on Monday and it’s my first 9-5 since my business started to tank, hoping to find new avenues with a lot less stress after this new path!
Experimenting is life! I wish people would understand it's not failure : it's interacting with life in a real way. To do, go for something, reassess, work again...this is how we grow and learn
As someone with more life experience, it's only a fail when you allow it to hold you back. I failed at my own business and let it mire me for a good five years before I realized no one but me cared that deeply about it. I woke up one day and realized that letting it hold me back was the true failure, and things have gotten much better since then. So, going back to your job, moving forward and finding your own path to keep doing what you love - all successes in my book!
I am so encouraged and thankful that you've shared this video
Happy to see you take care of yourself and making the decisions to best support you at this moment 🤍!! Thank you for another great video 🦋✨
I wanna say, you’re still a big inspiration for me! It really is tough to be self-motivated and to build out your own structure. I admire that you still took the chance and your art has developed so much which is so cool. I’m still trying to get into the habit of drawing and figuring out what creative outlet i want to stick to for a while. It’d be great to start an art business one day, and maybe I’ll get there. From your video though, it reminds me that it’s a journey with its ups and downs. We don’t know what would happen, but even if we don’t, it never hurts to try
So done with 9-5, its Depressing!
ikr i retired at 52 and honestly, I wish I’d done it sooner. The 9-to-5 grind always steals your freedom for a paycheck that barely scratches the surface. My advice? If you’re in your late 30s or early 40s, start saving for FIRE now (Financial Independence, Retire Early.) And if you’re in your 50s, invest smartly and break free from relying on your job. Market trends, like the Trump Effect, have made millions for many, including me. Stay focused, stay consistent, and remember financial freedom is within reach if you make it a priority.
Exactly My point! The 9 to 5 grind is just not worth it the stress and low payoff. What specific steps did you take to break free?
Working with Lorrie Greta Hillard , a financial advisor, was a game changer. She helped me refine my savings strategy, including retirement planning, and provided expert guidance on investments and budgeting to maximize my savings.
Got it! Thanks for the tip! I was curious, so I looked up Lorrie
I have 5 more years and I can’t wait!
Hi! First off, I love your channel, I've been following your journey for quite a while.
You're not alone in where your'e at, this time a decade I was exactly where you're at, I quit a job to chase my full time art dreams and i was too addled to keep going and figuring out how to survive. Since then I've taken a lot of "day-job" paths, but it hit me a while back that I'll also ALWAYS be a full time artist, because I'm constantly thinking about, planning, and working on my art. We get very trapped in the modern, capitalistic meaning of being a full time artist, and we're conditioned to think that if we have to supplement ourselves in any other ways then we've failed and that simply isn't the case. Artists shouldn't have to suffer for their craft (another unhealthy myth) and it's very admirable to be strong enough to take that look around and say "this isn't working quite right, I need to change something."
You're doing great! You'll continue to do great and as a fellow artist day-job haver, I'm super proud of you!
Your Vlog feels very comfy to me. The way you are and how honest you are. Thank you for sharing
honestly success is not linear ! you just gotta believe in yourself ❤
3:42 Hi Gabi! I’m going to pause the video here to comment that I don’t think it’s lame to need external structure.
I’m currently taking a break from work to learn programming (funnily enough you’re one of the people who inspired me to learn to code) and I’m going back to work in January and I’m happy about it! I need to have to get up at a certain time because I can’t manage to motivate myself to get a routine otherwise.
Needless to say having money stability is enough of a reason to go back to a 9-5 job if the lack of stability was affecting your mental health.
You gave yourself a chance and there’s zero wrongs with that!
As someone who stares at screens all the time I highly recommend blue light glasses they help a lot! I add them to my already prescribed glasses and it’s really nice!
Love that I found you. Work life balance is so important. Visited your shop & got the notepad!
I am going back to being employed after 7 months as well
I will be pursuing my art in the coming year 🤞🏼
I really appreciate your openness with this 🥰🥰
This hits close to home. I'm currently jobless but I want to do something else aside from my real work. If adult responsibilty and financial status isn't important, I'll just stay at home doing stuff that I love (playing and focusing on my hobbies).
Life is all about changing our minds and only the brave ones actually do it. Way to follow your intuition!! I think art can be more fun and rewarding when there is the secure financial stability behind it.
We love and support you Gabi! 🦋
This year I am learning that I work better with others who want to see me succeed and not fail. If they believe in you then I'm more likely to succeed and not feel like I'm not good enough.
Hi Gaby! I did exact the same thing, leaving a successful career and a stable job to pursue my dream to be an artist/ designer. Now, 1 year later, I am looking for a conventional job again (but remote). It is very unrealistic to try to maintain the same lifestyle we had at a conventional job with the money we make from art. Let's be real, I also have rent to pay, bills pilling up and a dog to take care of. At the end of the day you just have to do what feels right for you and what it takes for you to live a comfortable life at least. You're not less of an artist because you had to get back to your 9-5 job. Remember that progress is not always linear and it looks different for each person. Sending you love from Brazil
Thanks for being so transparent about your experience
Following you through this journey with the ups and downs is so grounding and inspiring. Keep doing what you wanna do but take the steps you need to feel secure in your choices girl. Everyone will be waiting here for you no matter what. 💜💜💜
Good on you for being honest with yourself when things aren't going the way you expected. Reality is, starting your own business and being able to pay the bills is a very hard combination and usually things don't take off right from the get-go. Having your own business is often glorified, I feel. Your experience is not a failure if you learned from it. If you can time manage, you can make a 9-5 work with your business 😊 I work a 9-5, often a 9-6 and I see it as a means to fund what I love; my art, my apartment and its vibe and my cooking which I love so much. It has good and bad days but at the end I'm very grateful to have a decent job in this modern day world because lots of people don't have the privilege that I have. You'll be fine 👍
really enjoyed your vibe! Will be rooting for you :)
Hi one of the first subs here 💛 Don't think I ever commented before but it's been so refreshing to follow your journey. As an academic who loves their job (=passion) but suffers from the insecurity of temporary positions, I would say having regular pay and job security is more important to our mental health (and life in general... hello rent) than the hustle culture cares to admit. Super proud of you and looking forward to watch and support you on the next steps on your career and life 💚🦆
I appreciate so much you posting this and sharing your thoughts. And it’s totally okay and normal to try something and then come back to some things, or change the direction, or just take a break, right? Let’s normalize it. And… the journey is not over. I’m sending you hugs, thank you for your videos🌸
I did full time streaming for 4 years out of the 11 years I’ve been streaming. It was harder than a full time job. I was so happy to come back to a consistent paycheck. I love streaming part time
I’m so glad you had somewhere to go back to!
I just found your page and love your journey! I just quit my job last year to start a small business and it’s definitely a very hard journey mentally. Can’t wait to see what happens in this next chapter you🎉
love the transparency!! as much as i love art, the stress of having it ever be a sole income is beyond me :') maybe one day though~~
It’s okay to return to the 9-5. The job is a vehicle to get to your goal destination. Best of luck ❤
Going back to 9-5 is okay when that serves you and give you peace and comfort. 8 hours of structural work, and the rest is up to you and your artistic mind. Future will be what your future self decides. You probably represent most normal young remote worker lives.
Having your day job does not make you less of an artist. The cash flow will give you choices of creative projects that you want to pursue. Be well and best of luck to you going forward.
You should give yourself a lot of grace - so many never have the chance, courage or opportunity to do what you did. It's not and end of a path
I've been juggling music and a 9-5 job for about a decade, and at first I used to think I'm "lesser" than my colleagues who just put their entire life into their art.... Girl, now that I'm over 30 with a decent job in IT, it hit me that I've become the real winner. Having a stable income, clarity in your future, skills that I can depend on, and the ability to say NO to whatever offers/contracts/ideas that I do not like is a privilege that many of my fellow local musicians cannot enjoy!! 6 months, in terms of chasing such a big dream in such a competitive field, is more like a START, you have not failed! We just gotta admit that for 99.999% of people, even those 6 months without a stable income is ALREADY far too long. Let alone investing YEARS in your art and skills without any guarantee that it will all work out. And no matter how amazing you are, no matter how professional you are, there are some things that are out of our control. For most artists it won't ever be "art or 9-5", but always "combining art and 9-5".
thank you for posting this and sharing your vulnerability! while i’m super inspired by the current “quit your 9-5” movement, realistically i have a lifestyle with bills that simply cannot accommodate something outside of 40 hour employment. so i’m managing and trying to balance the professional and the creative until the creative can be my career.
that said, i’ve gone back to a previous job plenty of times before when finances and life dictated. it was humbling every time but i was also grateful to have cultivated a positive enough relationship to be welcomed back into something familiar and less stressful or unpredictable. life doesn’t have to be all burned bridges, and i loved seeing that opportunity for you 💜
Love that you're sharing this part of reality! I'm in the same boat, kind of. I tried to get my small business to the next level in the past year, but it hasn't worked out as I hoped. So I'm now applying for office jobs again as well (parttime though, so I'm very lucky there). It does feel like failing a bit, and I keep wondering if I have tried enough. But I'm also excited to feel less pressure and have a stable income again. Might get the creative (and entrepreneurial) juices flowing more anyways haha.
I spent a year and a half chasing my dream and working as a freelance illustrator. But had to get a full time job to pay for my education. So seeing this video made me feel a little more relaxed as I now know someone with a similar story.
It’s okay to change or in your case more like correct your path a little bit (you’re still pursuing art career). Days are long but years are fast ❤
Beautiful vlog!! Thanks for sharing ur real experiences. Also felt like a good conversation 😊
I feel like I can see the disappointment in your eyes throughout this video. Whether it’s disappointment in yourself, or in having to go back to work, or having to tell the world after telling the world you were chasing your dreams, or it not being exactly the way you thought it would be, or something else. Please don’t be so hard on yourself! Life is a journey and it’s full of lessons that we all have to learn in our own way and in our own time. Be proud of your efforts thus far and just do the best you can ❤ sorry if I’m way off base, but I just felt the need to say something ❤️ sending all the good vibes, good energy, positivity, love, and good luck your way for this new branch of your journey!! ❤️