Like a number of people, I’ve spent a good part of my life feeling like I just didn’t fit in. This feeling first started when I reached that awkward age of adolescents and, ever since then I’ve never seemed to be able to shake that it. Not too long ago A friend recently sent me the following definition from a fridge magnet.
ARTIST (ar’tist) noun
1. a) One who practices an art in which conception and execution are governed by imagination, style and taste
b) a person skilled in one of the fine arts
c) a craftsman that executes his art with individual style
2. Often their work is judged according to the culture and the attitude placed on art at the time. Although they may earn recognition during their lifetime, they are usually not recognized for their accomplishments until after death
3. Lives a life of unstable economic means.
4. Many theories have been put forth regarding their creativity, the most common one being that is it inherent, although if not developed & tested will remain dormant
a) they seem to create during moods, often intense, mostly lasting only a short while
5) They have a feeling of brotherhood with each other that is timeless.
6) Thought to be haphazard, having no sense of order, plan, or direction, yet are known to be perfectionists when it comes to their own work
a) they make decisions on feeling rather than reason
b) have problems with concentration
7. They are stereotyped as mentally unbalanced. One artists cut off his ear in a passion of creativity combined with frustration about his art. It has not been determined whether their creativity has anything to do with this.
8. They are sensitive, aware, and alert.
9. They are tolerated by society, which allows them to live in accordance with their own natures
I realize what many people today call entrepreneurs are more like our modern day artists. We are driven to create work that has value which others see and are willing to pay for. We use our imaginations, and then set out to bring to life that concept that was born in our minds. I mean no disrespect to artists. I’m only trying to make a point – entrepreneurs today are motivated to do more than just make money. And, now more than ever, we need smart, creative people dreaming up new ideas and ways out of the mess we have found ourselves in.