REMEMBER THE REASON

A RANDOM THOUGHT FROM A RECKLESS REDHEAD

By Jenny Reed, ACF Board of Directors - Publicity Admin

As summer begins to wind down for some and continues at full steam for others, I have found myself thinking about why I got into home crafting to begin with. For many of us, it was a passion we had for the craft or art that we produce. We found our way to craft shows for many reasons, but the main ones were to share our passion with others.  And to make a profit from what we love.

The issue I have run into as of late is that making things for a profit has overshadowed my desire to share my passion. I work to make the products that sell rather than to try new things. Granted, I like the products that I am making and I am proud of them but it starts to feel like a chore rather than a pleasure to make them.  I have found myself spending less time doing something I loved and more timedreading the items I need to make for a show.

If you are relating to this in any way, I am here to say it is OK to feel that way. Working through these times of feeling stuck can be hard, but the key is to find your passion for your projects again. Here are some tips try:

• Take one day, whether you choose to do this monthly or weekly, and use thattime to try something new. It may be a different version of something you already produce, or it can be a completely different craft altogether.
• Take a step back for a day or just an hour. This gives you time to think ofyour projects and helps you decide which direction you want to take your business.
• Don't give up on yourself.  A slump can happen to anyone but you can get out of it. It may take time, but you can do it.
• Take care of yourself because, without you, the shows would not be the same.

Above all else, remember the reason.  Remember the reason that you fell in lovewith your crafting. Remember the reason you enjoy doing shows. And above allelse, remember that you are in control of where this life takes you.
Every one of you is important and help make ACF a great organization.
When all else fails and stress has its grip on you, instead of beating your head against the wall, screaminto a pillow. It has less side effects. Believe in yourself and love what you do.