Quitting My Job to Be a Full Time Artist · The Under-Painting #4 · semiskimmedmin

[@minniesmall]

First! But seriously, thanks for watching. Apologies for the loss of camera focus midway through. Things can never go perfectly can they?

[@tanvigorthi3411]

Minnie Small Your hair seems to be going perfectly, though! It is flawless!

[@Coratison]

I wasn't sure if it was my eyes or not , got a bit worried for a second haha

[@AnastasiaR]

Thanks so much for this video! I'm so happy that you do what you do

[@tak4e4]

It's alright, those plants in the background look crisp af

[@minniesmall]

tak4e4 haha I'll take that!

[@luvurobert]

"Don't wait until you're ready... because you will never be ready." This is SO true! I'm always making excuses for not making art more of a priority. I constantly have this guilt like I should be getting chores done around the house first. I should be prepping and cooking some fabulous meal, etc. I have all the tools I need... I just need to make it happen and believe in myself!! =)

[@JPoupard]

I'm in the same boat...every day.

[@mariarascon5031]

LuvU Robert La perfección es infinita, la vida no. 🌾 (More or less: The perfection is Infinity, but the (our, your) life isn't). Excuse me this 'english'. 😓

[@jennyvindin6976]

Thank you young lady I absolutely loved hearing your story. It didn't just speak to young people, even though the content is so good for a young person to hear. It also spoke to me, I am 61, have never focused on my love of creating art because life got in the way. I am doing that now and your words are perfect to hear right now.

[@studiosherlen]

i hope you'll be doing podcast series some time in the future, i love listening to your voice!

[@minniesmall]

This series is kind of like my visual podcast I think. Maybe one day I'll go full podcast, we'll see :P

[@chark3459]

@@minniesmall I admit, I was multi-tasking and coming back to check on your drawing, but mostly listening to it like a podcast

[@afernandez3348]

I second that! Your voice is perf for a podcast series, i hope you get to do them : )

[@laurenpatton7482]

I third that. Haha. New subscriber. I love Art!! Love to listening to British English accents.

[@michelepastele5347]

She's wonderful - very calming.

[@CookingForAll]

Holy crap do we live the same life? After finishing college and attaining my dream job, I've come to realize that it's a massive nightmare. I've been working towards it for 11 years, and my world has completely fallen apart around me. I feel like I don't even know myself anymore. Depression, anxiety, and everything in between have filled up my being. The only thing I have consistently loved throughout my entire life is drawing, but I always put it on the back burner because it "wasn't a career" and I needed to focus on my real job. I finally picked up my drawing pencils a week ago for the first time in six years. There isn't anything I want to do more with my life than be an artist, but I've told myself (and have been told by others) for so long that it isn't possible. But fuck that noise. I just have to figure out how to make it happen. Thanks for letting me know I'm not alone.

[@karathompson7780]

You can do this! I'm so happy for you that you've finally picked up those pencils. If you start sharing your anywhere let me know!

[@aaaaddddaaa]

this is why I'm hesitant about grad school. I want to think about what I do before falling into more years of school. I want to try to accomplish something creative, despite what my parents believe I should do.

[@TheSvartdemon]

How is it going?

[@rhythmandblues_alibi]

You are not alone

[@victoriannecastle]

Cooking For All keep going!

[@renee6841]

She’d be so great to sit down and have a conversation with

[@katepatoot]

I went around my friends house the other day and she showed me a travel journal and my first thought was you and I told her and turns out we both love you so we sat and fangirled about you!!

[@minniesmall]

Ah that's so cool! Tell your friend I love you both!

[@missbrsnider]

I loved hearing your story. It's so relatable. I also wanted to be a forensic scientist, then anthropologist, then clinical laboratory scientist, then I finally changed my major in university to Spanish. I dropped out. I was lost. My parents did not support me on that. They made me go back to university and get a job (retail grocery store). That was really tough, going to school full time and working as well. After I graduated, I got married. I had to stay working that retail job for a long time (personal reason). Finally the personal reason ended at the end of March, so it's been a month and a half. I initially was going to look for a job as an interpreter but I realized I would be so much more happy if I could sell my art. I quit my job after 6 years and started my Etsy shop last week.

[@14butterfingerz70]

Found this to be one of the most useful and most "real" experiences about taking art from a hobby to full-time. Thanks for sharing and for all the advice! :)

[@minniesmall]

You're so welcome!

[@ghalone]

It's an interesting juxtaposition. I'm an artist and my first job was a factory job. I repeated the same taste every 6 -7 min and I loved it. My brain was free to day dream while my hands went through the muscle memory or the task.

[@giannatan8357]

I LOVE listening to your videos while I do everything, from cleaning my room to drawing, to really just sitting there. Your voice is so relaxing and calm and ilysm

[@minniesmall]

ily2

[@Coratison]

That's actually a really good idea to use google maps for your art, I really liked that idea

[@manzanillita]

i've used google earth for drawing neighborhoods of my childhood that I'm currently unable to visit. it really is!

[@reedbej4822]

Mel Beltrán I've done the same thing :)

[@Sunanwidyasoendoro]

i love the idea, thx for inspiring

[@universalassistant1461]

I use magazines .

[@pengangguranterselubung6969]

W.O.W. ....

[@Juliana-Bub]

This video is three years old, and it's still helping people. You're so educational, inspiring, and reassuring. I'm in the middle of something similar to what you have gone through. I graduated with my BA in literature right when I turned 21. I got a "temporary" job at a big department store in my area to hold me over until I found a "real job" that was relevant to my degree, but my town just has no job market other than retail, tourism (essentially busier retail), and the giant corrupt hospital. After working at my temporary part time job for three years and getting a promotion, I decided it was time to get a different degree before my whole life sped by. I'm currently majoring in art history with minors in new media and art. I only started doing art a couple years ago, so no KZbin channel yet, though I think it could be a good idea. I've also started doing design and illustrations at a small magazine a couple months ago, and I'm getting paid for that (not enough to live on yet). I kept working at my retail job until a couple weeks ago... but I just got another job at a bigger retailer that pays more. So I'm still working in retail while I'm in school, but I feel good about covering a lot of ground with my current major and minors, and I'm getting experience and exposure with my contract work for the magazine. This is the first time in my life that I've felt any amount of hope for my future. I come from a poor family, so I never had any opportunities, but now things are falling into place, and the decisions I've made seem like they're going to be worth it. And of course creators like you are kindly informing and inspiring viewers like me. You are an absolute treasure.

[@ItsLizV]

Are we the same person? I love repetitive jobs as well, and I like to joke that I was born in the wrong era, because my dream job would be a filing job in a huge company, where I'd just sit in a little area sorting files according to date or name. But everything is electronic now so that doesn't exist anymore :P

[@minniesmall]

Oooh yes! That's another thing I'd love to do. I once worked admin in an office 'packing envelopes', literally folding letters, putting them in an envelope and sealing it. I never thought of how great it would be to live in an era where those jobs were so much more common!

[@Cami6597]

Liz V. Art oh my gosh I'm doing that now! I enjoyed it at first but now... When you spend hours looking at names and repeating the alphabet all day 😂 all the name sort of blur together and I spend way too much time starring at one page 😂 oh I can't wait for another job! I applaud anyone who likes that kind of stuff!!

[@GoldiRockRecords]

It's an artist thing...

[@-zephyressence-2018]

Actually it's still around. My former boss in embroidery retail was very old fashioned, so on particularly dull and uneventful business days I would sort all files both name, business and numerically. It was very time consuming. Lol.

[@paulamaichable]

omg so happy to find you two... feeling kinda normal now.

[@1Ma9iN8tive]

21st century She puts a tape cassette on and pushes play ... I subscribe instantly I'm 49 a sneeze away from 50 I retired from the rat race two years ago to create a creativity career change I enrolled in The Learning Connexion Creativity and Art Institute here in Wellington New Zealand I'm concentrating in Drawing, 3D Sculpture, Print Making and Painting I enjoyed this vlog immensely You hit on a really important message here for many when you talked about your "Who Am I" moment. My decision to pursue my creativity wasn't so much a "Who Am I" moment but rather a "What the fuck am I doing with my gifts" realisation. Too many of us native creatives are great at many things serving the myth that life is for seeking reliability, security and job satisfaction. Mistake!!! Identifying your gifts is one important thing every should do - Understanding your gifts is another thing every needs to undergo seriously but putting your strengths and gifts into action as a career that is allowing yourself to live the life you love and love the life you live now that is the golden duck egg to pursue. Surrounding myself with a tribe of native creatives was exactly the momentum I did to create my tipping point back to a life I love to live and live to love creatively. Your vlog inspires me to consider blogging as a means of sharing my own creative story. Much respect to you, your parents who obviously brought you up beautifully and your creativity path(s) you create for yourself. I leave you with my fav artists quote by the late New Zealand artist ceramicist train engineer poet wine maker drinker Barry Brickell ... "...it's in the doing not in the thing ..." Note: Your talk was so interesting I didn't even notice you that there was no music from your tape which is what I originally subscribed for ha ha ha - of course background music would have detracted from your voice and presentation delivery ... In essence the tape deck was a click bait trap for a tape cassette kid at heart. Mixed tapes - good times I look forward to watching your career develop creatively Blessings for 2018

[@jasminthaflower9684]

This is my story too. The only difference being I only realized I want to do art full-time last month. Its crazy how similar people's stories and processes can be. Thank you sharing. You've helped alleviate some of my anxiety, and I feel reaffirmed in my journey.

[@Bexx74]

I loved this. Thank you for being so vulnerable and sharing your low points. I loved your story, your drawing and of course, your voice. I could listen to you for hours. I'm so glad you are making a good living doing what not only makes you happy, but what makes your fans so happy and proud for you. Keep up the good work.

[@minniesmall]

That's so kind of you, thank you x

[@MH-ql4nh]

I relate to liking repetitive jobs. I suppose it's mostly about it being predictable, and I find that very comforting (I hate surprises!).

[@minniesmall]

Ah yeah I'm the same with surprises, gimme predictability any day!

[@pawsnotclaws2772]

Sameeee I love them too 😅

[@studybuddy36]

I can never forget this video. This was the same video after watching which i started my art journey three years ago in 2018. Thank u Minnie.

[@anne6630]

thank you for this video and talking about what you went through to get where you are now, it really comforts me because I just dropped out of college to focus on my art and I applied for a job at a supermarket and it's quite terrifying to try things on my own. I just stumbled upon this video and I relate to a lot of things you say and the timing just makes me feel like maybe I made the right decision (oh and I also like "boring" jobs)

[@ofboriken]

I'm over the moon with happiness knowing that you're taking this big step in your life! I wish you the very best. My eyes are watery thinking how I'm nowhere near close to doing this myself. Don't think I'm jealous though! I'm WELL AWARE that what you're doing isn't easy and you didn't achieve your level of talent through luck alone. Any success you have now or in the future, will be well deserved because of your hard work, long hours, and dedication. Good luck, my friend. -F

[@minniesmall]

Aw thank you, this is really kind of you x

[@teapotlizard]

ah yes, university... my experience is quite similar. i applied to uni to study english (after some peer/family pressure, plus not getting into art school), and after the first few weeks i was like "fuck, this is not me at all". in finland getting a master's degree usually takes 5 years. so it was either dropping out and disappointing my family, or staying at uni and suffering for 5 years. it was a good uni, i liked some of the professors a lot, and it felt good to be able to tell people i was a university student, but god it was all so theory-heavy and intense and i kept failing my exams and falling behind. all the assignments and emails would just pile up to the point where i just stopped checking my email. all of this triggered a really bad depressive episode (i didn't have a diagnosis at the time though). i would stay in bed for days, and if i managed to drag myself to uni i would just skip lectures and cry. knowing it would have to go on for 5 years was suffocating. i got incredibly anxious, i was suicidal and self-harming, i had panic attacks. people kept telling me to just stick with it, finish uni and get a "real job", "you can always have art as a hobby". eventually, after about 6 months, i just stopped going. it hurt like hell to disappoint my family but i honestly felt like i was barely a shadow of myself. i got help, started going to therapy, taking medication. i know my parents really wished i'd go back to uni once i felt better. but i knew i wouldn't ever go back. it's been about 5 years since i quit, now, most of which i just spent at home, on sick leave bc of depression. occasionally i'd apply for jobs but always got rejected bc i didn't have work experience or a degree in anything. i applied to art school several more times but didn't get in. however, last week i had my first day at florist school. i did a two month internship at a flower shop this summer and i loved it. it's creative, it's visual, it's actually doing something with your hands, it's making people happy, it's an art form of its own. i should graduate in 2 years. i'm also thinking of setting up an online shop sometime in the future, for my more traditional art. things are pretty good now and i hope they stay that way. :) thank you for this video and sharing your story! it's always comforting to know that even artists i look up to (like you!) have had a hard time finding their path. also, i drew while watching/listening to this video and it was the most relaxing time i've had all weekend. kind of like sketching with a friend even though we don't even know each other. keep up the beautiful work, i'm always so inspired by your drawings and paintings. x

[@deathwish766]

teapotlizard That sounds horrible but I'm glad your life is looking up now!

[@minniesmall]

You say we don't know each other but I feel like we know each other a little better now. Thanks for being so open with sharing your own experiences, reading about your time at uni sounds so similar to how I felt at the time (suffocating is the perfect word). It's great to see that you've come out the other end though. Floristry is such a beautiful craft and I can just imagine what joy it must bring you. Thanks again for sharing and best of luck with everything.

[@ethiea_]

Very happy that you found what you like to do! Sounds really fun! I hate that suffocating feeling, I actually feel like I have it now (I'm in the midst of looking for a new job) but everything will be fine eventually, I hope. :)

[@shayla5781]

very happy for you lovely! I feel like so many people don't admit it but feel the same way. There is this pressure to get a real job and not much for us artists except really graphic design or animation. I don't feel good enough at art for it and wanted to feel more grown up and get a more serious profession so I am a psych major art minor. It has gone thru waves of good and bad. Having shitty jobs. Alot of people i think come to a realization they don't know what they want and you feel trapped being in uni because its like I wasted so much time and money. I more days than not hate college so much. But its an investment and im an art minor now

[@teapotlizard]

Deathwish, thank you x

[@alexiscolby9415]

Watched 45 secs of your vid, considering that I've waded through the bog of youtube artist type vids and the varying personalities (some annoying some not) I knew you were the "one" - vibing with your vibe, subscribed instantly!

[@SaraFaberDraws]

Ohh this video is so helpful! I also quit my job to pursue art full time and it has been super scary but also super rewarding. For now it feels like a rollercoaster and I never know whats going to happen tomorrow. I needed this video to cheer myself up:) Thank you!

[@kaylaanderson5349]

LOVE hearing you encourage young students to work hard towards a well-rounded education while creating in the meantime to build a work ethic that they can apply to their art and their craft later in life! I graduated with a degree in Financial Accounting and work as a Financial Analyst now, but create in nearly every spare moment and have been pursuing art more seriously in the last year and half or so. I have found a new gratitude for my "day job" because the income it provides me allows me to explore my creativity without the pressure of generating an income from art while I learn.

[@LaLaLand2.0]

Im 52 and you just inspired and tought me some valuable lessons. You can be very proud

[@valerietg]

This is SO timely with the calling I’m feeling right now. Thank you for your openness and transparency. It’s very helpful to hear someone else working through this on their own terms.

[@monikahthehuman2365]

As always thank you so much for sharing. I'm so depressed at my current job. I'm the only person who provides for my family so I don't have and option to do otherwise at the moment. Drawing is my only outlet. But I've been considering starting an etsy shop since I crochet and make cards. (I work at a call center my hands are always free) The bit about how you saved up and the advice you had was more helpful than you know.

[@brookeplested7151]

uneventful life of monikah I am a single parent to a 5 year old and I decided to go self employed as a catalogue distributor, got working tax credits. I do this job around family life, now my spare time is utilised by creating my drawings and I'm wanting to now take my art work from a hobby, to another level of earning. Comment if you'd like to do the same. Don't let life get you down. There's always a different way to live xx

[@emmaphilo4049]

This is quite the way you make it in London if you don't have rich or sponsoring parents, well done girl, it was great to hear your story

[@AshenAGrey]

Recording enough material to use in a chat without rambling or becoming boring is definitely a practiced, acquired skill. It's what I'm struggling most with right now. It's nice hearing about that sense of aimless chaos and laziness from you though. If you've been there too and made it, then I will, too.

[@minniesmall]

Definitely! This is the fourth video I've made like this (plus 10 or so long voice-over ramblings for my real-time videos on patreon) and I finally feel for the first time that I'm getting into my stride with it. Not nervous or forced or lost! It's a struggle but practice makes perfect!

[@hyelimchoi_]

Man I just used this video as my morning podcast and I absolutely adore how candid and inspiring you are. Your raw honestly is making my creativity struggles feel less lonely and inspire me to continue to be creative and make videos myself. Bless you a thousand times over, Min, and I wish you the best

[@rachel.louise]

Absolutely loved this video and really resonated with it! I think it's such a scary decision to leave standard employment but I've never heard anyone say they regret it and for me, it's been the best decision I could have made. It's so encouraging to have people like yourself to look to and kinda see the light at the end of the tunnel, I'm almost 6 months in and it's been TOUGH at times but it's allowed me to really feel like myself again and start really enjoying life! Thank you so much for this video, I wish more people would tell their stories! x

[@missfish11]

I go to a college that's completely focused on the music industry - watching your videos make me feel super motivated to overcome any creative projects or any other work that seem daunting! Thank you~!

[@RealBlackEssence]

Ms. Minnie, this was such a sweet and beautiful video watch and help us get to know you better in how you live your life. The eerie thing is that though you and I live on separate parts of the planet, we have very, very similar interests and experiences and I just felt like I was hearing myself talk. I mean, you and I even went to schools that had the same name. It's crazy. But, you're very, very much a long lost sister that I definitely consider a blessing in finding you. I'm very blessed. Keep doing these videos as you're a beautiful person inside and out!

[@minniesmall]

Oooh I love coincidences like that! People have so much in common and you'd never know! I'm really happy you found me, it's lovely having you here

[@RealBlackEssence]

It truly is! I've been following you for several months now and I just find you, your work, and how you carry yourself as an artist and person to be such a God given blessing to me. God has blessed you in such a way that radiates with my spirit. I'll continue to support you in any way that I am able to. You are truly an amazing young lady!

[@miriampippaart4960]

(I'm in the middle of watching your video....but....) Ha forensic scientist! I can relate! I really liked hearing about your point of view and journey on carriers. I appreciate the fact that you were so open about the fact that your "ideal" path wasn't always certain and / or channeled towards art, but rather a journey of different goals, components and challenges. Also, it's so amazing how you manage to talk so casually while painting without getting distracted! :D I love your videos!

[@minniesmall]

Haha I love that you can relate! (Also I used to find it really hard to draw and talk but the more I do it, the easier it becomes lol)

[@FROZINATOR]

The "timing" of me feeling this same way/you posting/making this video/universal entanglements is kinda crazy - but it all resonates. Thank you - a giant heartfelt thank you. Already a fan of the videos and art, it's really neat to see a glimpse of the humanness in you too. Much love and thanks again! :)

[@katariinapurru]

Hi Minnie! I just wanted to say that every time I feel lost, you upload a video like this. I'm only 21, but often times I'm still not sure what I want to do with my life. So when one time I found your gouache painting videos, I was actually so inspired to start experimenting with gouache as well. Art is something that has been a part of my life and something I always come back to. Maybe one day I will have the courage to do the leap aswell but I know it's no easy task. Thank you and I wish all the best for you.

[@minniesmall]

This is such a lovely comment, thank you so much :)

[@writersounds9523]

We all are so different yet look, everyone finds something to relate to in your video. I wish you to grow and expand your art, never give up. And to all of us in the comment section - don't be scared, follow your dreams and chin up when facing the difficult times!!

[@chark3459]

My son is 18 and he needs to watch/listen to this. It's so hard to know what to do at that age, but you gotta get started somewhere, and if you work in a boring kind of job, it helps you know what you don't want to do! I worked in a cereal factory and knew I'd do just about anything else!

[@reefprayerresin]

Thanks Minnie. I just loved this. I’m at the older end of the spectrum, but my plan is also to support myself with my art. I could so relate to what you’re saying. All the best with your career.

[@IvonneSpinoza]

Thank you so much for sharing this! It's inspiring to hear other artists talk about their bumpy journeys so we all feel less alone ❤️

[@suewilkinson910]

Wow! Congratulations. You did it. I love how you talk about it all. It's very helpful for others to hear how it can be achieved. But the very best piece of advice came at the end. You said " don't wait until you are ready, because you will never be ready". I've run my own business for 10 years now and this is a perfect piece of advice.

[@FiraFlame]

I really appreciate the emphasis you put at 33:00 on committing to your school work and how it translates to the rest of your life. I have two college degrees and certificates and honestly what the diploma says I learned effects my artwork very little, it's what I learned in the PROCESS of learning that has had a huge effect on my career in the long run. Thanks a bunch for this video. It's a very long, slow process to form an art career, and a lot of soul searching too. There's no 'one-size-fits-all' model. Thanks again.

[@anknaparkin7510]

I was glued to the seat the whole afternoon watching various videos by you. You are amazing and so wise for your age. I am impressed with your success and hope 2018 will bring you all the best fortune and remain committed to Arts. I finished my fine arts degree but did not have your wisdom so I had to do another degree to enable to work in the office and earn a living. I now retired and paint for fun and wish I could have done better in Arts. Thank you for sharing your wonderful story. By the way, you are very beautiful.

[@Vuty00]

Your story about what you went through at uni is literally the same experience that I'm going through now. Feeling lost and just not knowing who you are......I know the exact feeling. However knowing that you went through the same thing and you came out of it okay and you doing what you love everyday , makes me feel like maybe this isnt the end of the world. Thank you so much minnie. Just... Thank you

[@dragoniraflameblade]

I had a similar situation with University and driving. Except I was stressed and my confidence had been destroyed to the point that I was fighting suicidal thoughts. I'm trying to start my own art career as well. This is an amazing video, thank you.

[@nikitaiszard]

And thank you so much for putting yourself out there. Our stories overlap a lot, and I appreciate you making me feel a lot less isolated.

[@sekaihatsu]

I'm relieved to hear I'm not the only person with that awful feeling of being behind the wheel. Your story is inspiring and I can relate to several aspects. I wish I had been as brave as you have been with Uni and your job, but I am encouraged to look at what it is now and what I can do going forward. Thank you for sharing!

[@karathompson7780]

I feel like I'll watch this video once a week to keep me on track! There are so many similarities in our stories (realising the degree was wrong, driving, anxiety) and I also can only get myself working if I put regular challenges in place! I was always a good student and graduated with a degree in architecture a year and a half ago. I got the architecture job I thought I really wanted and quickly realised that I was on totally the wrong path because it made me miserable. I had some savings so quit it (much to my parent's worries and a surprise to myself with my anxiety) and became self-employed. I'm still trying to navigate the world to being an illustrator/artist and like you sit down with a notebook to make plans to get me to commit to ideas and creating! Now I do a daily illustration poll on my Instagram story so at least I'm painting everyday. Thank you for inspiring and motivating me. I've never left a comment on a video before and made this account just so I could (and who knows, it could become an illustration channel!).

[@KimaCharysse]

First, let me say that I have never watched a 40 minute KZbin video, like ever! I was compelled to keep viewing - your voice, your skill, the topic. I am a 41 year old who recently decided to pursue a long-buried passion of becoming a full-time artist. Thank you for sharing your path, the ups and downs, as we often only see people post the good stuff on social media. This is what I needed today. I have an art show coming up soon. I have to work within self-imposed deadines to get things done creatively because, you know, life! Anyway, I was struggling with how to price my work, and you reiterated what I already knew. There were so many nuggets you dropped here, for young, and us more mature, folks. Big, fat thanks and squishy hugs across the pond to you for using your eloquent voice to soothe my anxiety on this day!

[@LannasMissingLink]

30 ways to fill a sketchbook was how I found your channel. I love how you've grown since then; it's inspiring to watch and makes me excited to see how my own work's going to grow.

[@kelciemakespatterns5202]

This video is just what I needed. I was/still am in the same position as you were and it took me a while to realize that I wanted to do surface pattern design as a career. I have been working nonstop towards that goal with little success but it is encouraging to know that if I stick with it people will actually read my blog.

[@mmmmlllljohn]

What an honest and candid video. It’s a kind thing to do - I’m sure you have helped many people by being so open and honest. God bless you.

[@themel8542]

Honestly I could listen to you all day. The way you describe things and your perspective is so inspiring, your voice is so calming and when you're drawing or painting I just enjoy to watch. Thank you for doing this!

[@AbujaYummyMummy]

This is so inspiring, art is not something i ever though i could pursue full time but after watching i have more faith and motivation besides whats the worst that could happen, going back to watch all your other videos just to get a bit of idea of how you started, thanks for sharing.

[@unwoven921]

Thank you for taking the time to create this video. I was working as you talked and I enjoyed hanging out.

[@theartistnyc]

Wow you are describing the symptoms I have been researching lately for female autism, Asperger's Syndrome. And you sound like me! Great work!

[@whitrulzes]

Your channel is amazing Minnie. The production value, the planning, as well as your talent make it a blast to watch.

[@AllisNelly]

Thank you for being so honest and open with your journey. It's kind of eerie how much we have in common! I've been facing a similar kind of crisis in my life recently and listening to your story has inspired me so much. I always had an affinity for art but never took it seriously as a career and switched my plans around constantly, always doubting myself and finding it hard to really push myself in anything I did. Now I've been drawing frequently for the first time in years and falling in love with it all over again. I may not be entirely sure where this will take me but I'm enjoying the ride! Keep up the gorgeous work. xoxo

[@CaptureKara]

Ah that's the dream, would love love to be able to be self employed one day as an artist! So inspiring!

[@Create301]

Such a relief to know I'm not the only one with those thoughts. I go between leaving nursing school to pursing my illustrator dream to staying put now, to then learning art later on in life. I chose to go through with my bachelors for nursing plan, because then at least i'll be able to pay for future art school. Double majoring is my plan and this video really helps with strengthening my idea and it was so great I keep re-watching. I'm so glad I found you! (:

[@sarahgould]

today's my birthday so i went and bought some gouache paints and watercolors, which i never would have considered before watching your videos. you're such an inspiration: i never would have tried going beyond drawing if it weren't for you. also, since you uploaded today (and every other day you've uploaded), you've gifted me in more ways than one! i just wanted to say THANK YOU!!

[@kivzzzz]

Hey, this sounds so great! Happy birthday! I wish you all the inspiration you need on your drawing journey!

[@sarahgould]

thank you!! i'd quote chuck close but honestly i'm not at that level - i'll take all the inspiration i can get ;)

[@minniesmall]

Ooh that's so cool! I'd love to know what you think of your new paints once you've had some time with them xx

[@sarahgould]

thanks i'll let you know!

[@halfe9534]

Its my birthday soon too but my mum couldn't help but tell me what she got, it's a graphic tablet to help kickstart art as some sort of career for now.

[@quinetteadaobiartsofanapos9756]

I just joined your beautiful journey. All bells ringing. Absolutely love the insights.Thank you for sharing and giving hope to people like me to to follow our passion in building our art career .

[@Laura-jt4pg]

I love how honest and down to earth you are, thanks so much Minnie!

[@stuartayre7618]

I'm glad I watched this. You're honest, clearly analyze your situations, and have lots of practical advice.

[@Dragonladyart]

Holy Moly, you're singing the song of my people. That was my college experience almost to a "T". Even attending school to be an artist, I was also an "A" student (till my senior year where I was just tired of trying) and had my plan all figured out. The crash when I realized how much I hated school and the class setting was horrible. It was so amazing listening to someone else who went through a similar situation. Thank you!

[@RunwrightReads]

Now that I have watched your more recent videos with the zine success etc, I enjoyed hearing you describe your previous job - checking the shelves and then coming the next day and checking the same items again. And now, look at your KZbin success in just a year after quitting that job. I don't know you personally but I am so proud of what you have accomplished. I wish you continued success.

[@beheshtah.3091]

I really enjoy listening to your videos whilst I draw or paint. Your calm tone and the relaxed pace of your voice over/chats really bring me into the art zone. I really appreciate your videos and hope that there will be more to come

[@Jadead23]

This helped me a lot, to feel more confident that my current meandering when it comes to career and interests, isn't a permanent state of flux. Thank you for giving me some courage and insight into a path I've always wanted.

[@miguelmelendez3354]

Congratulations and good for you!! I'm 53 and just beginning my training as a self taught artist. So happy that KZbin provides such quality education. Thank you

[@WYLTEN]

You are honestly, one of my favourite youtubers, thank you for sharing you own experience and your story!

[@intutivetarot7596]

I relate to you so much, except skill level. You're far beyond me. Anxiety, driving, displeased with your life, even liking routine..so similar! Now I just have to find a way to make art my job and not be broke. Lol

[@minaart26]

We are not alone :) I feel the exact same way. Minnie is a great inspiration. Maybe one day we can work as artists.

[@Safirezebabe]

Same! I was just listening to her talking thinking "yep, I feel exactly like that too!"

[@MeeshaTeesha]

me too! 7 mins in and i'm like shes me?! tf. that's so wild. it's pretty crazy too that so many of us can relate.

[@karathompson7780]

Sooooo me! I really hope someday our art will sustain us financially.

[@stillaroundart]

My people!

[@adventuresamongadjectives3080]

So refreshing to see someone not having a straight forward way to sucess! Feels like it gets really intimidating sometimes seeing all these artists and people on youtube talking about how they always worked towards where they are and always had the goal in mind. As someone who still doesn't really have any idea what I want to do in life, this gave me back a bit of hope :)

[@brooque]

I am SO glad I found you and your story. We are WEIRDLY similar and have very similar stories, actually, and knowing someone out there like me has succeeded in this journey is so encouraging. Thank you for sharing about everything!

[@PrissyKrissy15]

Your voice and the silence behind you talking is so soothing.. I feel like a lot of videos have background music throughout but the silence allowed me to focus and ease my mind.

[@SebastianTinajero]

Thank you for sharing your experience I’m actually going through a lot of that myself Ive been working at my warehouse job for years now and I want nothing more than to make a living doing art, I’ve been working very hard at building an audience and create at least one piece everyday I’ve been getting commissions very frequently and been selling a lot of my work I can feel this rush of excitement because I feel like if I just keep pushing I will be able to quit my job and dedicate these 8 hours to something I absolutely love instead of sitting in a warehouse.

[@morganfairclough263]

Thank you for sharing your story with us. It's reassuring to know that it can be done with hard work and dedication. I'm currently doing an art course at university, and I felt the love for what I do fade a bit as well; but I'm keeping at it as best as I can, and videos like yours help to inspire and motivate me as I work. It's also nice to hear from a youtuber directly that growing a following and making a channel takes a lot of time and effort - it makes me feel more confident after starting my own. I can do it!

[@olganovillosanjuan8358]

I'm always looking forward to you videos, not just because I love your artwork but because I love to listen to you talking! You say very beautiful things and you're always encouraging people through your words :)

[@13hehe]

I feel so calm and soothed watching and listening to you chat.

[@janalonso6711]

It is so kind of you to share your story.

[@Jatlu1337]

Your experience in school and uni is very similar to mine, except you are a few ears ahead of me. It is about a year ago that I realized that I don't want to make maths my job. I want to do art. And now I am working a job and doing my best to get my feet into the art world. I have basically realized that the ideal life for me would be to be self employed, and sell art and projects that I make, as well as youtube. I really love making videos, and I have a ton of plans for future videos. I started my yt channel for the exact same reason as you did, and it is so much fun! I really hope that I will be able to follow your path and too become self employed. Thank you so much for sharing, and for all of the tips. Stories like your's is what makes me keep going!

[@KnoelsNook]

The chances of you seeing this are pretty slim, but I felt compelled to comment because I'm in the exact same boat. Pressure forced me to choose a career path that gave me stability, but after years of feeling stuck and, as you said, repetition and just all around unhappiness, I took a leap and quit my job. I've always wanted to do art for a living somehow, and now I feel like I finally can. Thank you for your story.

[@1kitts]

Keep on keeping on everyone! Don't give up on art. I did once before. Now after over 20 years with degrees and jobs that have nothing to do with art, I've now decided to embrace what is most natural to me- the world of art. When I tell people I'm a graphic designer, they usually look disappointed at first, because they expect me to say something else, but this time around, there is no way I'm allowing anyone to sway me away from my first.

[@KcinLaLaLand]

Thank you Minnie for posting this video, I mean this as a compliment that I get so much work/cleaning done when I watch your videos. This video really spoke to me as I am currently going through similar circumstances. It was very nice to hear about you and your situations and some steps I can apply moving forward. I think for anyone at our age level it can be a difficult process finding and pursing your passion especially in the creative field. The best first step is to take that leap of faith and just go for it.

[@yellow-pear]

This video is one of the most helpful resources I have found about being self employed and an artist. It's definitely giving me a kick in the butt about working both harder and smarter. Also this could totally be a podcast series

[@robin_snest1018]

You are an amazing young woman. I am so impressed that your feet are on the ground. Thank you for this.

[@mariabarci7717]

Hi Minnie, I'm Maria and I just wanted to write and say THANKS. I was feeling really glum about something, which was affecting my art, but then I decided to watch this vid and you actually helped me get excited about drawing again :) Also, you inspired me to give a stab to starting a channel myself! Cheers, girl :) PS Love your groovy, gorgeous drawings ;)

[@yellpatzy2764]

I can relate so bad to this video

[@kivzzzz]

Yell Patzy oh my god, if this is you on the profile picture - you ate gorgeous!

[@bakad5458]

kivzzzz you know what they say, you are what you eat 💁🏻‍♂️

[@redinthethevalley]

You are wise beyond your years ♥️

[@Stewardship02]

Every word of your story basically applies to me, like. Every. Word. I'm currently in the stage where, I'm doing everything right, graduated with a good job, etc. but these have been the darkest days I've probably ever had (SO much anxiety!!!). I've always wanted to be an artist in some capacity, but right now I'm dealing with so much, and don't know how it would be to do anything "less" than what I'm doing now...you seem very at peace with yourself and who you are and what you do. Thank you so much for sharing your story

[@maggiekgreen]

Hey Minnie, first time watching - I quit my job earlier this month to pursue my art, and I really needed to hear your story. I luckily have money saved, but I'm jumping off the deep end. Looking forward to watching more of your videos and thanks for your honesty!

[@jannelson3828]

This is really great! I am much older and I've been an artist all my life, as a kid I drew all the time. I eventually became a graphic designer because I had to make a living. Now I'm painting and retired and still hesitant to show my work. Also am great procrastinator. Need to focus and produce. It was incredible to hear you, as a young person, giving such good advice that I was writing it down. Thank you so much!

[@corinneh.7184]

Seriously, thank you for this video and telling your story. I've never related to someone so much when it comes to my life and career path. From being indecisive between majors, to staying at a retail job because I've become too comfortable, to being naturally lazy. I'm still very insecure about my artwork but I'm also not fully taking the time to improve. I've considered quitting my job for the past 2 months and luckily I still live at home with my parents, who are so supportive, and at this point I just want to give myself time to get my life together and become really serious about my art. Just... thank you.

[@LandoftheIn-Between]

Thank you for sharing this. It’s so weird how parallel our lives are. I totally resonate with the whole leaving university and being told to be an artist your whole life and pursuing something you’re not entirely crazy about. Totally resonate with the repetitive tasks and being lost and in a bad place and then being around creative people and getting back into art. Like I even started my own Instagram account too. I mean I’m 20 but it seems like you finally figured it out for the most part. So this really gave me faith and like eventually I’m going to figure it out. So thank you for posting this I’m sure a lot of people can resonate with your story.

[@TheIknz]

I lived in Brockley last year, it's such a lovely area! I really enjoyed this video- it's so so refreshing to hear an artist's journey that is realistic in that you've struggled and made sacrifices for your art but still remains optimistic and ends with you having the job you love! I am so happy that you've managed to get where you are and that you can make a career out of your art

[@STICKYArt]

I can definitely relate! I took the self employment journey a little over a year ago. I quit a full-time job with the plan of creating art and publishing a few books. Unfortunately everyone in my life did not think I could as well as didn't value/understand art as a career. This made the path I decided to take much more challenging. I ended up taking a part-time job to appease everyone in my life about 6 months in. It ended up being my worst mistake I made and the job mentally and physically drained me so I was not able to get any art done at the end of the day. I realized how much the job was slowing me down and I quit the part time last December. I am now doing art full time (mostly commissions) I am still figuring it all out but I am finally seeing some results and at least being true to myself. Its way harder than going normal job but for me following my passion is worth it. Thanks for the inspiration this video popped up in my recommended feed in the perfect time!!!

[@ruemoriah6865]

Your rawness and honesty is amazing, thank you for sharing and inspiring people to not give up

[@RB-mj7mp]

I love everything about this!! Hearing other artists stories really helps motivate me with my own career path. I recently left my full time job (they kept me as an independent contractor at least) and pursued freelancing full time for the first time ever. I was diagnosed with ADHD last summer at age 28 and the dots finally started connecting. I struggled all throughout my life with finishing projects and staying focused on work, although extremely creative and loved making and designing things. I realized in 2014 that I wanted to pursue entrepreneurship, but failed many times at managing myself partially due to living with undiagnosed ADHD. I feel so much more confident that I can do it now, and I have a lot of support from my loved ones which helps a ton. I've created many side gigs that can come to fruition now that I know how to stay focused with one thing at a time and manage my time better. The next few months for me are sink or swim, and I have to put this kind of pressure on myself because I can't allow myself to give excuses anymore after having low self esteem and not believing in myself for the past 20 something years. Keep on doing what you do. I just subscribed! ❤️

[@jirehtv1322]

The timing for seeing this is insane. I had never heard of you until today. This is so helpful. Thank you!

[@alyssadurante8739]

You are such a huge inspiration to me! You made me realise it's possible to stray from what's expected from you and what youre used to.