Keep Motivation The Lazy Artist Way With Your Business

The dream of starting and running a small business is truly a wonder. It holds a great deal of imagination and excitement, though I understand why it might not be for everyone. It is, after all, a LOT of work. As an ambitious person, I find that imagining the foundation of my business is the easiest part. However, maintaining motivation can be challenging, leading to the premature end of many ventures. I've started four different businesses, all fizzling out in their infancies. And this doesn't even count the side hustles I've tried to make extra money.

It's not about blaming others, though it doesn’t help when YouTube videos and blog articles claim it's easy to make an extra $400+ a week on a side business. The fault lies with me when I set unrealistic expectations and then fail when things don't pan out. But enough with the negativity—let's focus on what's changed and how I'm ensuring a better chance for success.

Make Time, Even if It's Small

I have a part-time day job that takes up a significant chunk of my time, and my two-year-old occupies most of the rest. So, when I get an hour or two of free time a day, I just want to relax, play video games, or do something for myself. The only way I can make progress on my goals is by scheduling time during the days and weeks to work on my business. I ensure that when I have free time in the evenings, I dedicate at least three to four nights to my business. If I can spend at least an hour on those nights, I consider that a win.

Is an hour too long? Shorten it to 15-30 minutes. It doesn't matter how long you work as long as it doesn't put you in low spirits or feel forced. The key is to set low standards to get into the groove. Once you realize the fun in starting a business, you might find yourself putting in more effort, feeling accomplished, and generating more motivation and positive energy. This approach also helps with procrastination, which brings me to my next point.

Don’t Procrastinate—It’s a Setup for Failure

Procrastination is so easy, and we all do it. I might procrastinate more than most people. (Don't get me started on how long it takes me to fold my clean clothes and put them away...) My first point about making time and not procrastinating goes hand in hand—they can be achieved together. Think of progress as baby steps. I’m a numbers person. If I know I should be working but instead procrastinate for a day (or all weekend) and then rush to make up for lost time, I end up producing lower-quality work. This not only wastes time but also material and money.

On the flip side, if I set aside half an hour a day to create, planning this for three to four days a week, it works wonders. In creative scenarios, sometimes inspiration doesn't kick in until I’m deep into the process. Once I’m in the zone, I lose track of time, and this is when I create my best work. Getting started is the hardest part, so I aim never to procrastinate unless I have a really good excuse.

Automate Without Sacrificing Quality

Modern tools can save a lot of time. For example, I enjoy making digital art and use tools like my laser cutter. I can cut and engrave my own hand-created designs, using more wood, which is one of my favorite mediums. Once I’m 100% pleased with a digital design, I can "print" it as many times as I want by setting the material in my Glowforge Aura and pressing a button. However, never leave a laser machine unattended—wood plus laser equals fire!

Having equipment like this allows me to multitask. While my Glowforge works its magic, I can work on something else in the same room. Work smarter, not harder!

If you’re interested in laser cutting as part of your craft equipment, I highly recommend the Glowforge Aura. Here’s why:

• The software is straightforward and easy to navigate.

• The machine is encased, allowing you to work right next to it without breathing in fumes. It comes with a hose to vent outside.

• It’s more affordable than standard CO2 lasers. Although it’s a diode laser, I’ve created many awesome pieces and learned a lot about laser cutting in the seven months I’ve had it.

If you're interested in purchasing a Glowforge Aura, check it out here: Glowforge Aura.

I also use other great tools like a Cricut and 3D printer to automate my crafting process. Sometimes, I automate the basic pieces and then add a more hands-on approach to give my work a unique feel. This process helps me create a significant inventory, especially if I notice I'm running low right before a show.

Starting and running a small business is a journey filled with challenges, but it's also incredibly rewarding. By making time, avoiding procrastination, and leveraging modern tools to automate processes, I've found a more sustainable path to success. Remember, every small step you take brings you closer to your goals. Stay motivated, be patient with yourself, and most importantly, enjoy the creative process. Your dreams are within reach—keep pushing forward, and you'll see the fruits of your hard work and dedication.

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