What happens when the hustle slows down and you're left wondering if you should get a teaching credential instead? In this raw and honest conversation, Quynh, Sara, and Jessie open up about the parts of running a creative business we don't usually talk about: the financial worries, the seasonal doubts, and the struggle to keep going when your energy isn't the same.

"I feel like every year it repeats and it always starts in January and sometime in the summer for me when I go through these random moments where I'm like, do I need to go get a part-time job? Do I need to maybe change careers?" - Sara

This isn't your typical "boss babe" pep talk. We are three paper artists who've been in business for over a decade, sitting down to have the real conversation about what it takes to sustain a creative life. We talk about the pressure to look perfect on social media while hiding the messy truth, how motherhood changes ambition, and why finding your "why" is the anchor that keeps you from drifting when things get hard.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

Why January brings existential career questions (and why that's normal)
The uncomfortable truth about money conversations in the artist community
How to balance motherhood and creative ambition without feeling torn
Why your medium isn't your message and what is
The power of having people who understand your struggles
Writing as a tool for clearing creative space in your mind
How to tell if you're moving in the right direction (even when it's not clear)

👉 The Best Thing We Bought for Under $20

Quynh: You are the Brand by Mike Kim
Jessie: Find Your Artistic Voice: The Essential Guide to Working Your Creative Magic by Lisa Congdon
Sara: Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek

Paper Talk is supported by our community of readers and listeners. When you click on our affiliate links, we may earn a commission for qualifying purchases made through Amazon.com, Shareasale, or similar affiliate marketing programs. This commission goes directly into the maintenance of this website and our podcast.

________________________________________________

JOIN OUR PAPER TALK MASTERMIND!

If you've been running your paper business solo and you're tired of figuring out pricing, marketing, and selling alone, then this is for you. The Mastermind is back and we saved you a seat!

Starting March 3, we are leading a 6-month Mastermind for paper artists ready to build something sustainable. You'll meet twice a month with us and a small group of paper artists tackling the real stuff: pricing, social media, selling your work, newsletters, and building confidence in your business.

We’ll have honest conversations, dive into practical strategies, and be with people who actually understand what you're building.

It’s $125/month for 6 months. Pay in full and save $50. Registration closes March 1.

👉 Join the Mastermind now!

Ep 188: Finding Your Why Again When Your Art Feels Heavy