In today's episode, we're talking about a topic that's been heavily weighing on my mind and maybe yours too: the paradox of following your passion. We'll explore the struggles intrinsic to leading a life driven by creativity and passion within the confines of our capitalist society. As a writer who has faced recent financial uncertainty, the push and pull between the dream of doing what you love and the reality of making a living.
We'll dive deep into societal and cultural expectations, touch on the privileges that underlie the ability to pursue a passion, and discuss the candid truth behind the often-oversimplified advice to "just follow your passion." I'll share my personal experiences, including the panic and doubt about sustaining my writing career, and the surprising advice that set me on a path to embrace writing as my primary pursuit.
We'll also examine the rising costs of formal education for writers and how this influences access to the profession. Despite the glossy portrayal of success in social media and the promises that you can 'make it big' by following your dream, we'll confront the harsh reality that doing everything right doesn't always guarantee success. And that success, much like failure, is far from being exclusively tied to financial gain.
So, if you've ever grappled with the challenges of balancing your creative passion with financial stability, or if you're seeking ways to redefine your perception of success and failure, this episode is certainly for you. I'm eager to share my journey of finding my way, and I invite you to share your experiences and insights on navigating the complex landscapes of creativity and capitalism. Let's get started.
Discussed in this Episode:
Not discussed but recently published article that speaks to this episode so well:
Sources:
https://lithub.com/cutting-class-on-the-myth-of-the-middle-class-writer/
https://arts.columbia.edu/tuition/first-second-year-mfa-students
S1:E5 - The Paradox of Following Your Passion