“The person who says it cannot be done should not interrupt the person doing it.” – Chinese proverb

This proverb really resonates with me.

This wisdom immediately reminds me of a common question that I still receive when I introduce myself as a painter in social or business settings.

The common question I receive in response is “Oh, do you make a living at that?” Ugh!

I try to maintain control over the fine muscles in my face so that I do not betray my mild disgust, frustration, and defensiveness.  This just feeds into their negative perception and energy.   And who wants to be perceived as a loser?

Yes indeed.” I reply.  “In fact, I’ve turned a profit since my first year in ‘business’ over five years ago and my ‘business’ has been profiled in Fortune magazine, among other national media.” This quickly shifts my audience’s response to me from pity to fascination.

But that’s not the point of this post.  The point is that I don’t like to be interrupted by negativos.  Nor do I like to give them too much time or energy.  I’d rather continue to march forward and build my enterprise.

Ironically I find too many creatives even more steeped in poverty consciousness than even the general public.

To all artists I say, note to self. Marketing trends confirmed by respected research sponsored by American Express reveal that during this decade’s economic downturn sales in all categories of luxury declined, except one.  Which one?  You guessed it.  Fine art.

So yes indeed, people are buying art.  So don’t interrupt me.

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