Good Intentions

There were many things I had intended to create and improve upon before participation in my first widely known show – South University Ann Arbor Art Fair. We all have hopes and dreams right? They push us to do better and to be better at what we value as important to us. Let me pause for a moment and say this is not intended to be a complaining session. Please read on…

I was not able to finish my most important pieces before the show. I had a torch malfunction on the Saturday during the 4^th of July holiday. This was my last bit of scheduled studio time before the work was to be completed and submitted.

With the help from family I was able to get it resolved; though it was not the easy repair it was suppose to be. Four days later I had a superbly functioning torch but under the pressure of only being able to squeeze two more days in the studio I folded. I was devastated.

All Was Not Lost

It took me a few days to pick myself up again and to realize all was not lost. When I did take a step back I saw that I actually accomplished quite a bit. For starters I redesigned my business card, hang tag and product cards all in time to get them printed. I was also able to send an additional ring to be molded and cast. Under normal circumstances it too would have been included in my offerings at the show. My biggest accomplishment was that I designed my makers mark in time enough to have the tool produced and be able to stamp my newest pieces. This is huge!

Giving Yourself Credit

While I did have my moment of feeling like a complete failure I still accomplished an enormous amount of things in a short amount of time. Though I was not able to show my latest rings this time, they are closer to being ready for the next opportunity.

It’s important to give yourself credit for the things you do accomplish. As long as you keep working toward your goal; each step, no matter how small, is a step in the right direction. Don’t ever forget it!