Why I Make Pots Even on the Terrible Days

When we dream and then put actions behind those dreams we begin to show who we are and the story we wish to live and tell the world on our own terms. This process is a little different than a social media influencer. Influencers promote themselves and products and get paid for what they do. Being a maker of handmade, you may not go viral nor make boatloads of money. However, you will keep creating for the sake of creating and for fulfillment. You will create even on the terrible days.

I do see pottery as a passion. A passion might mean that I only make pots on the days that I want to rather than the days I need to. A passion might mean that if I no longer felt passionate about making pots I might stop. I get up and go to work when I am required to at the big paper factory. Most days at work I am not passionate about it. I still show up and do the best I can, even if it’s nice out or I have a cold. I still find factory work interesting but I would not say I am passionate about it.

I do not think I am passionate about the pots either. I have made pots when I was having a bad day. I have made pots because it was time to make pots. At times, they might come out looking quite terrible, but I make pots anyway. Even when I might not feel all that passionate about it. Passions come and go, but the act of creating should still be done, as it is an act of generosity and a giving of yourself to those who you show the work to and those who care.

So when you create, try creating as if it is your mission rather than your passion. If it is your mission to create that alone might give you the fuel to make it through the next dip and survive as a creator. I don’t need the checkout lady at the Dollar General to be passionate about scanning my candy bar so I can buy it. So I hope you find your mission, whether you are passionate about it or not, because no matter what happens or how you feel, your mission will still be there to work on.

If I were living yesterday a second time: Tomorrow I’ll remember that missions require action, not just philosophy.

Things I am grateful for: The distinction between passion and mission that makes the work sustainable. The fuel that comes from mission when passion runs out.

Days remaining if I live to 86: 12,715

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