Food for Thought--Handling Those Passion Projects!

 

We all have them.

You know: the creative projects that don't put much money in your pockets, but "feed" your soul and make your heart sing.

The ones you can't wait to work on, even after a hard day's work. The ones that allow you to truly express yourself and make a difference.

Sometimes it can be "pro bono" work for a local charity. Or the newsletter at your church.
For me, it's definitely my poetry.
Did I mention it's my first literary love? Way back before blogging existed, I poured my heart out over romantic poetry.

And to my delight, some of it has been published in anthologies and magazines.
But back then, I had fewer clients, more time, and fewer competing demands.
How about you?

So the $64,000 question becomes...
How do you balance work that you truly dig, with work that may not be as enjoyable, but often pays the bills?



Jen's Homemade Pineapple Salsa

Right now, I'm feeling that tug.
I'm currently working on a poetry chapbook to be released later this year, in addition to blog work for clients, consultations provided to other writers, and articles that I need to submit to help keep my ledger "in the black."

I'm also looking into the possibility of doing some food writing, as I love to cook and conduct reviews on cookbooks and restaurants.

Truth be told, most creative folks are passionate about an array of things. Which is why you'll often see actresses that also sing, dance, and design their own clothes line.
The key to success is proper perspective and balance.
(And a good agent doesn't hurt either.)

If you'd like to pursue your passion projects, without guilt or detriment to other obligations here are a few things to consider:

1. Passion projects should be prioritized properly. One approach is to get up a little earlier in the morning to fit them in. Some may even be worked on during lunch breaks, or late at night when everyone is tucked away in bed, and the house is quiet.

2.  Remember that it's okay to have two loves here.
Don't feel guilty. Passion projects often keep us energized and inspire us to greater heights.

3. Consider cutting back a little on social media to make more progress.
Even a few hours less a week can make a measurable difference.

4. Don't overlook the advantages of collaborating.
There's some validity to the expression, "Two heads are better than one." Collaborative projects can save time, build supportive relationships, and allow writers to partner with individuals whose strengths compensate their weaknesses.

5. Keep a weekly calendar.
It will help you to become organized, focused on your goals, and deadline oriented.

6. Control outside distractions.
They can be a real time thief. For example, this morning I got a call from a relative of mine. Interested to learn what was going on in her world, I took the call, even though I was in the middle of penning this piece. My initial goal was to devote just
10-15 minutes or so for the conversation. But, she got a little sidetracked, and when I looked up, nearly an hour had passed by the time we said goodbye.
Sound familiar?

To sum things up here, Passion Projects are a great way to express our individual talents, touch others, and make a difference through our gifts. When handled properly, they can be a blessing that enhances us spiritually, mentally and professionally.

Your turn.
What's your one passion project?
Are you working on it now?
Any tips you'd like to share for greater success?