#013 Embracing The Amateur
“Every artist was first an amateur.”
In this bonus episode you'll hear why Monica believes we should embrace our inner amateur. You'll also hear about examples of amateurs throughout history; from the fields of sports to science to art, who greatly changed their field of study or work. Speaking of work, by the end of this episode you'll understand why Monica hates the popular notion that doing things we love isn't hard work. #TheHappierHour
PREVIOUS EPISODES ON LOVE:
- #012 Love, Loss, and Loving More
- #011 Commit To A Character With Aristotle And William Beteet
- #010 (Bonus Episode) Getting To The Good Place: How Rules Can Make Us Happier
- #009: Soulmates, Sartre, and Beauvoir with Dr. Skye Cleary
- #008: Your Love Blueprint and Sigmund Freud with Terri Cole
The word "amateur" is French and translates to "lover of.” We typically use word to describe a person who does something for enjoyment, rather than for money. Today the word amateur, along the related term "dilettante," has a largely negative connotation, but that was certainly not always the case.
Does Having A Day Job Make You A Better Artist? Article via The NYTimes
13 Celebrated Artists Who Didn't Quit Their Day Jobs
When Less Means More Interview with Phillip Glass for The Guardian
Are You A Cross Trainer Or A Dilettante? Article by Penelope Trunk
“Forget about being an expert or a professional, and wear your amateurism (your heart, your love) on your sleeve. Share what you love, and the people who love the same things will find you.” - Austin Kleon (artist and author)
QUESTION OF THE EPISODE:
“What is something want to start doing or do more of, not because of what it will get you, but just because you love it?”
