Work or Play?, by Tatiana – In The Mix #24

June 25, 2009 Tatiana EL-Khouri 2 Comments

You’ve achieved success in your field when you don’t know whether what you’re doing is work or play. -Warren Beatty

The idea of success has been a passing topic that has come up a few times in the past few weeks during my personal reflection. I’ve had a couple people approach me for guidance because they said my drive and success is an inspiration to them. It kind of threw me off because lately I’ve been consumed with work, an immense amount of work! With Comic Con nearing my personal projects have dwindled. Deadlines are mounting and projects are gearing up for their debut at Comic Con- which is in one month! Yikes!!!

I’m sure MOTU will start teasing some of the Comic Con announcements over the next couple of weeks. The Black Panel this year is impressive, the star power is out of this world and the projects that will be debuted are amazing- if I must say so myself. Let’s just say if you thought Michael “MOTU” Davis’ party last year was star-studded and filled with movers and shakers, you haven’t seen anything yet!      

The interesting thing about my workload is that it’s all centered around creativity. Something I’ve been striving to do since I graduated from college was to have a workload that is full of creative projects.

So why don’t I see the same thing others see so readily?

Hell for each admirer of my work and career, I also have my share of haters. My view in art or business in general is if you aren’t polarizing the masses, you probably aren’t pushing your limits hard enough or taking risks. I remember fondly waiting for the day when people would have jealousy or envy towards me, as I viewed them as sure signs of success.

I think the key to why I’m not seeing the success and inspiration others so readily read from me is because I need some more play like Beatty suggests in the quote above, something that excites my creativity and pushes my personal limits. Then that excitement will push my workload; letting the circle of inspiration, stimulation and enthusiasm take shape. Which is a great place to be! If my energy was stagnant and I was content with my status, there would be no room for improvement or growth as an artist.

Lately my reflections have left me feeling uninspired and longing for change. But now I can see there are endless possibilities on the horizon and I’m anxious for the discovery chapter I’m about to embark.