When I was in kindergarten, there was one day of show-and-tell where we had to dress up as who we wanted to be in the future. I grabbed an apron and my most colorful clothes, and went to school proudly saying that one day, I wanted to be an artist.

 

To my seven-year-old self, this meant creating beautiful masterpieces like those I saw in museums, and studying art very in-depth through extensive art classes. Maybe my seven-year-old self would shake her head right now if she found out that I am a graphic designer, and not a world-renowned traditional artist. But if it weren’t for her spark, I don’t think I would be the Creative that I am today.

 

Looking at what I’ve been able to do now, I am definitely miles away from when I first started. I remember tracing over celebrity pictures when I was just learning Photoshop back in grade 5, and even trying to apply makeup on models through that same software. I would watch tutorials on YouTube in the wee hours of the night just to finally be able to apply an art concept in my head that I was thinking about the whole day. Needless to say, I did everything I could just to get better at my craft, maybe without me even realizing it. Today, I’m glad that I get to create art that inspires others, that helps organizations move forward with their causes, and most importantly, expresses my beliefs, passions, and advocacies. I owe it all to the little girl who first dreamed of becoming an artist.

 

This piece that I’ve made speaks of sparking growth—or starting with a simple seed. Before you know it, you’ll realize that that spark will turn into something bigger, and that saying yes could lead to new and greater heights. New goals and new challenges will come along the way. Some days might be filled with joy, and others filled with discouragement. But know that we’ll get there eventually; surely, we will.

 

So, to my fellow creatives and dreamers, start the spark, because it’s definitely going to take you places. Talent and skill will come eventually, but commitment and drive has to be your starting point. Believe that you already have it in you. And surely, your future self will thank you later. 😊❤️