I think over time I have lost the mental correlation that me getting up each morning and sitting at my desk dealing with queries, completing month-end putting in controls and trying to lead my team actually earns me the money that magically appears in my bank account each month. I can’t see what any particular task is worth in terms of putting cash in my pocket.
I’ve been scrapbooking and making cards for friends for a couple of years but about three months ago I brought a few of my cards to work on the behest of a friend. That day I got a few orders to make greeting cards for special occasions and the next day a few more and suddenly I have price stickers, cellophane bags, a costing system, an order form, a website (tbc) and a class to teach card-making in 3 weeks time for 20 people! It is a very small undertaking, I’ve only sold about 200 cards in total but it has re-taught me the value of money.
I am definitely thinking differently about spending money because it can take me 1 hour (often late at night) to make a special card, deciding on a style and stamping the design, distressing the edges etc which would cost me maybe R 10 and I charge R 25 so I am effectively working for only R 15 an hour. If I buy lunch for R 45 at the Café downstairs that is 3 cards worth!
The other thing I have noticed since I have started making cards on order is that I am less tired. I used to go to bed at about 21h30 but now I need to be dragged from the Art room by Hub often around midnight. Maybe creatively stimulated minds need less sleep?
What is your hobby?
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
As you know your hobby has been my inspiration. Still not found anything to keep me awake at night, but something to keep my mind distracted.
ReplyDeleteBefore you know it, your hour rate will be R1000.00 as I am sure you will start mass production soon :)
ReplyDeleteAh, that is so wonderful enjoying what you do. Keep it up, its great to have fun, even if its till late at night