My husband Jay says I am much easier to be around since I started painting again.  He is my best friend and said this to me in a completely teasing way.  I was in art school when I met him and I know it is because I am making sure I have time to do something I enjoy doing after years and years of not.

I am inspired after having finished reading the book ‘The Alchemist’ this week.

It supports what has become clear to me in the last year.  Going after my own ‘Personal Legend’ as Paulo Coelho calls it in his book.

A few of my favourite takeaways that give you an idea (if you have not read it):

“When you want something, all the universe conspires to help you achieve it.”

“When we strive to become better than we are, everything around us becomes better too.”

“To realize one’s destiny is a person’s only obligation.”

“Remember that wherever your heart is, there you will find your treasure.”

Over time, what I consider my Personal Legend is far more important to me than always trying to work to get ahead.    I have worked a lot, done a lot of ‘side jobs’ including drafting home plans, and doing material estimating for the local building supply when a contractor needs a quote on the materials for a home build.  I have worked so much on top of my full-time work and trying to fit in some family and bonding time with our boys.

Now, after being creative again and producing some art work I get the questions and suggestions about selling my work.  If I have thought of displaying my work in local venues to sell it.

At this time, no.  I am not creating to sell and to feel like I am doing another side hustle.  I am creating for enjoyment.  I am creating to expand my skill and get to my ‘end game’, my Personal Legend.  I am creating because I now know what I want.  If opportunities come out of my creation, great.  I have done a couple of commissions, and have another project coming up that came from being approached because of my style.  I like that I have the freedom to evaluate what I want to take on.  Now that I know which route I am taking, anything that tips the needle of the compass in another direction doesn’t need to distract me.

I am excited to work towards what I love.  I am coming into balance with myself.  After so much reading and exploring personal growth, I can attest to another statement in the book The Alchemist:

“Life really is generous to those who pursue their Personal Legend.”

Have you explored your Personal Legend?

Met Liefde / With Love,

Devon