March 23, 2009
for the love of the dance
Amy got laid off two weeks ago, and while we both see this as an opportunity for her to explore new possibilities; obviously it has added to our stress.
Before the lay off, my obligations were finishing the renovation of our house and a book I am writing on Information Architecture. It now looks like I will need to set aside some of these projects until things have stabilized.
Obviously, I could use my experience as an Information Architect, or I could make a concerted effort to design and build furniture, but I am wondering if there might be other opportunities that could supplement our income while allowing me time to finish the Information Architecture book — perhaps a way to leverage my love of interpretive dance into a revenue generating stream.
Anyway, I open the floor. I know a lot of us are going through this now. Any thoughts, suggestions, or opportunities would definitely be appreciated.
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Amy, I am so sorry. I hadn’t heard. What a blow. Ideas I have none–except that you can live really cheaply down here where I am. Do keep us posted.
Oh, I’m so sorry to hear this. I can imagine how Amy must feel. I know several people in the same situation (I’m sure we all do). I hope this results in each of you finding your way to something unexpected and wonderful.
I spoke to a lovely woman at Whole Foods on Friday. I was buying cupcakes for a baby shower, and the pastry chef helped me. I asked her if she loved her job–spending her days frosting cupcakes to look like rose blossoms, crafting chantilly swans, painting ladybugs onto little cakes. She told me, yes, she does love it–but that she had to spend many years working her way up to the point that she can do what she loves in the bakery, rather than the grunt work. It was a real eye-opener for me–I’d simply never considered that, even in a grocery store bakery (albeit a pretty fancy one), there is a career path that leads to the privilege of being the one to decorate the cupcakes.
All this to say, I believe we should all strive to make a living doing what we love–but it might come at a greater cost (in terms of time, commitment, and competition) than we originally recognize. You will be a lucky man indeed, Deron, if you’re able to find such a way of making a living in the current economy. I’m keeping all fingers and toes crossed that it happens!
near as I can tell I’ve been working toward making a living doing what I love for twenty years. here’s to the good fight.
Man, what a bummer for Amy. I might be there soon enough, my company is definitely on the rocks and the boss has made it clear who is next. Here’s hoping you and I both can find something.
Hang in there, Andrew too!
It’s a strange and interesting time for most people, I think. As you know, I decided to start work on my Ph.D in the fall, giving up my teaching job to do that full time, so our income will be less. I just think if one door closes another will always open. Follow what you’re passionate about!