Unwrapping 2024: How I Found Freedom in Art and Other Big Life Changes

I can't believe 2024 is already coming to a close. This year was a big year for me, full of big decisions, creative adventures, and lots of thanks. The biggest change was when I decided to quit my day job and jump into running my own business. Am I crazy and did I leave to regret it? Here's a peek at my year and what to expect for 2025.

1. Chasing My Passion

Earlier this year I left my job because I wanted to be free to make my own choices and share my art with the world. I hoped that my art would reach more people and be featured in bigger campaigns. One of my biggest dreams is to draw for Monocle or create a global campaign as a lifestyle and travel illustrator (manifesting here for 2025). To be honest, it was scary to make such a big change, but it was also exciting and made me trust in my skills more than ever. This year was an emotional rollercoaster but I'm glad to have taken the steps towards my own future.

2. Inspiration from Others

You are the average of the people you surround yourself with. This year, I got the privilege to get inspired by many people around me. Friends moved to new countries, a former boss left his busy job to run a bed and breakfast in Denmark, and another friend took off to explore South America for three months. Finally, let's not forget that my partner is a talented musician and has been inspiring me to push my creative side as well. If you haven't heard his music, check it out here. Seeing them chase their dreams reminded me that we all want to live meaningful lives. And you too should give it a try in 2025!

3. Travel and Making Memories

Part of taking some time away from the corporate world was to traveled with my partner. This year, we visited places in Canada and Japan, and took shorter trips around Europe. These travels showed me how important it is to make special memories with my partner while we're both still young and healthy.

4. Starting My Shop

"Sip, Cozy, Art" was an unexpected project as I opened my shop less than two months ago. It lets me share what I love with the world and connect with others who like my work. The positive feedback from customers keeps me motivated to keep going. A big thank you to all of you for even reading this blog.

4. Being Thankful

I'm really thankful for all the support I've gotten from friends, family, and people who buy my art. Their help has been super important as I start this new part of my life. Every bit of feedback and every purchase means a lot because it shows that people believe in what I'm doing.

Lessons I've Learned This Year

• Keep going, even when it's tough: The journey of running my own business has taught me to be strong and keep going, no matter what comes my way.
• Diversify your income streams: Alongside being a top teacher on Skillshare, I've expanded into selling my art, opening up new avenues for creativity and financial stability.
• Community is everything: Having a group of people who support my art has helped me a lot, giving me great ideas and encouragement.
• Be flexible: Being open to changing my art to match what people like and what’s popular has helped my business grow.

Excited for 2025

I'm really excited about what 2025 might bring for my shop. I want to add more products and maybe work with other artists to help my art reach more people. I hope to make homes cozier with my art.

As the new year approaches, I’m reminded of how important it is to chase your dreams and the special role art plays in bringing us all together. Thank you to everyone who has been part of my journey; your support means everything to me. Here’s to another year filled with art, learning, and being together!