As an artist, you’re the boss of you. So if you’re frustrated or feeling burnt out, just ask yourself,
Would I hire myself or fire myself?
A children’s portrait painter who I mentor, Kate Bradley, mentioned during our recent one-on-one call that she’s feeling exhausted and that she’s even considering reducing her annual sales goal. I reminded her that she was the boss of herself. And if she was fed up with “management” she should write a letter to her “boss” and let her know exactly how she was feeling and ask “management” to outline clear employee policies. She did just that.
Dear Boss Kate, I say this with as much civility as I can muster, but quiet frankly, I am sick of your shit. I have worked for YEARS for you, and all the thanks I get is feeling like I haven’t done enough/aren’t good enough. Rarely do I get the encouragement and compassion that I need from you. All I hear is how I could have done something different. Well, I’ve had enough. For my own sanity and well-being, I will no longer let you berate me any more. When I left my job 5 years ago, it was to free myself from bosses and mind-numbing work. It was NOT to subject myself to a bitch (yes, that’s right) who is never satisfied. I’m sick of you showing up at my house after work, and on vacation…I should really get a restraining order for you. I don’t deserve to be treated like this. I’ve worked hard for you, and never even get a good job, much less a raise. What kind of employee do you think I am? Even the people at McDonald’s get benefits. I’ve let you push me around for too long and I’m done. You don’t give me much direction, and then get mad at me for not doing everything right! I put myself out there day after day, and I deserve a little more thanks than this. You beat me up about my goals, and then don’t give me any credit when I achieve them. So I’m leaving. And good luck finding someone who can do what I can. (Hint: THEY DON’T EXIST). Peace, Employee Kate
We had a good laugh. She reviewed her the weekly updates to me where she reports her insights and shifts in her perspective. This review gave her the insights to craft her new written employee policies.
- Things can change very quickly so don’t give up.
- Be bold and take daily action.
- You can’t control other people, nor are you responsible for their choices.
- Progress, not perfection.
- It’s not about you, it’s about them.
- Focus on your mission.
- Dream BIG. Don’t sell yourself short.
- Be your own biggest fan. Don’t forget how far you’ve come.
- Have fun!
- Get out of your studio and make a friend.
Can you relate? What kind of employee are you? What kind of boss? Would you hire yourself or fire yourself? Tell us why below.
