On Working for Money, not Simply Passion

In January of this year, Rob Brezsny wrote a pronoia horoscope for Taurus on his Freewill Astrology website: "Taurus author Anthony Trollope (1815–1882) published his first novel at age 30. During the next 37 years, he completed 48 additional novels and 18 works of nonfiction. Critics liked his work well enough, but were suspicious of his prodigious productivity. When they discovered that one of Trollope's motivations for writing was to make money, they disapproved. Then they found out that Trollope kept a watch nearby as he worked, determined to generate 250 words every 15 minutes. The critics hated that even worse. Creative artists are supposed to court inspiration, not adhere to a schedule—at least according to the critics. But I approve of and recommend Trollope-like behavior for you in the coming weeks, Taurus. Cosmic forces will be on your side if you do."

I agree. I'm not a Taurus, but this feels like good advice for any of us in the creative arts.

I like having enough money to be able to have and make choices that fit who I am, not just meet my basic needs. I prefer to thrive than merely survive. I spent years selling my intellectual labor and abilities to colleges and universities so that I could thrive; now I enjoy selling my artistic and creative labor and abilities instead.

I question why some people seem to think I should work merely for my passion and keep my prices low for their bank accounts. Without the financial resources to buy my equipment and materials, as well as living a decent (thriving) life, my ability to make my art is limited and restricted. Passion is like fire, but fire needs fuel. I also need fuel.

Additionally, I have work to do other than the artistic work of quilting. Keeping all the aspects of this business operational takes effort and work as well. I want it to be just as excellent as everything else I do, and excellence takes time. My time is valuable. The intellect I use to put all of this together has a financial value as well as an aesthetic one.

I don’t apologize for charging what I do for the art work I create. When I have worked for other people, I have told them what salary I am worth. I am doing the same now.