Here’s to the amateurs
In today’s full-tilt culture, amateur often carries a negative meaning. If a hobby doesn’t morph into a monetized side hustle, what’s the point?
Take drawing, for example. I’ve always wanted to learn how to draw something beyond stick figures. To test the waters, I’ve sketched almost every night this year. Then I text a photo of my creation to my college roommate, Eric, who is doing the same.
I’m a total noobie. Eric, a long-time artist, is amazing. The contrast between our drawings is, errrr, obvious…
But you know what? It doesn’t matter! We crack each other up, share moments from our daily lives, and flex our drawing muscles in the the process. I’m improving, slowly but steadily.
It’s like getting a cardio workout while playing basketball: if you’re having fun, it doesn’t feel like a w.o.r.k.o.u.t. Try feeling that way during solo wind sprints.
Amateurs have it better
The word amateur has Latin roots in “love.” In both French (amateur) and Italian (amatore) it’s not about skill, but love and passion.
Compare that to the stress of professionals. I’ve read about pianists whose nerves are so bad they throw up before performances! I may get some nerves while playing for friends, but I tend to keep my dinner down.
Historically, the amateur was considered to be the ideal balance between pure intent, open mind, and the interest or passion for a subject. The gentleman scientists (think Isaac Newton or Charles Darwin) were amateurs in the best sense of the word, following their curiosity whichever way it went.
Those guys set the bar high, but they didn’t start out discovering gravity or evolution. Initially they looked at falling apples and studied mollusks.
(Every T. Rex hates the sit and reach test.)
Why is art different?
What I find fascinating is that people spend their time on so many activities where they’re distinctly amateur without feeling a pressure to make money. Chess tournaments, local 5k running races, strumming the guitar. Few people get paid for those hobbies.
But creating physical ART?! No way, dude: that’s a waste of time. Maybe it’ll be worth it if I open an Etsy store or sell an NFT?
PFFFFT. I enjoy drawing (and writing this blog, playing piano and so on) because they’re satisfying and fun creative outlets, not a source of income. I don’t have to think about marketing, customer acquisition cost, or…
Sorry, I drifted off with all that boring business crap. NONE of which I have to do as an amateur!
The next time you’re going deep on a hobby and someone asks when you’re turning it into a business, be proud of your amateurishness. Remember, nothing wrecks an enjoyable hobby like turning it into work.
Please don’t turn to placating..your newsletters are remarkably interesting because of your ability to weave through the ridiculous and manufacture a joyous experience 😁
Everything you said is so true! Hobbies are the good stuff. Trying to always turn everything into a money making opportunity robs those activities of their innate pleasure. It is good to have some things that are just amateur level hobbies. Thanks for sharing!
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I love this post! I’m reminded about my own hobbies, and how when I’ve ever tried to turn them into a side income, I’ve often fallen out of love for them. There’s a real joy in doing something you love, but not expecting anything in return. I always love those moments when I can sit down and draw, without any consequence, just….to draw. So satisfying! Love that you and your artist friend are able to enjoy time sharing what you’ve created.
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