From Corporate Life to Full Time Artist: The Courage to Pursue My Passion.
“These canvases represent a pivotal moment in my journey as an artist. At the time, I was drawn to abstract art because it gave me the freedom to create in the moment, trusting my heart and emotions. Each piece is a burst of color, representing happiness and the energy I was feeling. Together, they tell a story of expression, boldness, and the joy I found in embracing what felt right.”
Realizing It Was Time to Move On
The turning point came when I returned to work after a three-month medical leave. Walking back into the office, I felt an overwhelming sense of disconnect. At that time, I was 39, and I couldn’t imagine spending more years in the same environment, doing the same job. Looking out the office window, I felt like a caged bird. I knew that if I didn’t make a change then, I might never have the courage to do it later. That moment became my call to embrace my true passion and pursue art full-time.
Sharing the News
When I broke the news to my loved ones, their reactions were mixed. My kids were too young to fully understand, but my parents and then-boyfriend were stunned. My parents began to cry, worried about me leaving a well-paying job for the unknown. I remember asking them why, and they both said they wanted me to be happy but were afraid of what the future held. I assured them that my happiness was rooted in my art—teaching classes, painting, and participating in art shows. Their support, though cautious, meant the world to me as I took that leap.
A Journey of Fulfillment
Leaving the corporate world was daunting, but I found immense freedom in dedicating myself entirely to art. My days were now filled with creative exploration, learning new techniques, and finding inspiration in everyday life. Each painting became a piece of my story—a story of resilience, courage, and the pursuit of happiness.
Breaking Free from Societal Expectations
As I look back, I realize how much we, as a society, are conditioned to follow paths laid out for us, often without questioning if they truly align with our hearts. There’s a powerful pressure to conform to what society deems “safe” or “successful,” and in doing so, many of us lose touch with our own dreams and intuition. When I left my corporate job, I wasn’t just stepping into the unknown; I was reclaiming my right to follow my passion and trust my instincts.
Making the choice to pursue art wasn’t easy, but it was essential. It taught me that sometimes the scariest decisions are the ones that ultimately bring us the most joy and fulfillment.
What About You?
Have you ever felt the pull to follow a different path or chase a long-held dream? Or maybe you've been held back by fear or expectations? I’d love to hear your experiences and thoughts—leave a comment below, and let’s start a conversation.
Thank you for joining me on this journey. If this story resonates with you, I invite you to explore my art, to find a piece that speaks to you, and to connect with the moments that make life meaningful.
Pao Saenz
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Instagram: @paosaenzart