What did you do this week?

One of my favorite places on the web asked the question - What did you do this week?. 

Good question.   

Those of us who are self employed usually know exactly what they did during the week.   It's not a 'work when you feel like it' situation.  There are no paid vacations, no paid sick days.   The misconception of an easy life working at home always makes me cringe.  It's hard to work at home!  In reality it takes a lot of discipline.  Some days are easy, you can't wait to get to the project for the day(s) ahead.  Then there are days where you purposefully walk into your work room.   You may have to start your day setting a small goal.  When that is accomplished you set another small goal.  Eventually (at least for me) you are off and running and the hours fly.To be a professional at home is challenging.  There are chores waiting to be addressed, laundry, and family interruptions.   You're not away in an office somewhere,  no interaction with co-workers on a hard day. 

The definition of  amateur is based on the Latin "to Love".  Often it is thought that amateurs work because they just love the work.  Professionals work for the money.  I beg to differ.  You must have a deep love to be a professional.  To work no matter what.  To go into your workroom on a daily basis.   To set goals, keep a schedule, and be creative on demand.  You can't let things get in the way of your work.  It's a challenge when you work at home. 

Back to the workroom.....  Cheryl

Comments

[Bren]

I agree with you completely! Thank you for posting this - it feels so good to know that there are others that feel the same way & go through the same trials. . . ! Thanks Cheryl!

[cheryl]

Bren, Thanks! This is a small excerpt from an inspirational trunk show presentation I have developed.

[Monica Leaning]

Way to go sister! I loved your comments on What did you do this week. Being a visual artist I so understand "going to the studio" in my house to work. Sometimes I just have to move thing from left to right to get me going, or, put on a little tina Turner! Your oldest sister!

[michele d'amore]

hi cheryl,
my name is michele d'amore. i would like to contact you regarding quilt projects, but can't seem to find an e-mail address for you. would you mind forwarding it to me?
thanks,
michele

[Monica Leaning]

The difference between an amateur and a professional is this: an amateur works when they want to, or when they "feel" like it; a professional works steadily, everyday, whether they "feel" like it or not, they work! Monica