Self-Employed Artist Diaries ✿ How to Make Art When You're Anxious, Friendship & Loneliness 

the "e" at 2:32 is supposed to say "Sakura Radish Spirit" 🤦🏻‍♀silly me....

You are so young, the world is your oyster. Who knows what you will enjoy doing in the future. You could be a graphic designer, video game developer, digital artist, clay stop motion animation, product designer, clothes designer, interior designer, furniture designer, architect, etc. You have so much future ahead, and there are so many things you can create and do, that it is almost impossible to predict the future. Effort + time always equals result. Even if the result is not the one expected. We learn from bad results as well as from the good results.

Your videos are so cozy and inspiring! I'm 10 years older than you, and am a self employed musician working on film and game soundtracks from my own home studio. I totally recognize the initial motivation of wanting to prove everyone wrong! :D Also, the anxiety about too much to do (overwhelm) but sometimes also not knowing what is next is so relatable. I agree - one step leads to the next, and as long as we focus on the next goals, plan strategically with a business mindset, but also never forget to dream, it's going to be okay and the next part of the path will reveal itself in due time ❤

I've always wanted to be an artist but growing up, my parents where always really "real-life", go to school,, get a 9-5 and work until your retire. I fell into that, but at almost 30 years old I'm seeing a surge in young artists blossoming and it has pushed me to work past my "big girl" job and start up my own business. I have trouble starting stuff and never finishing, but I'm doing a really good job pacing myself, setting everything up in my own time but not looking at others and comparing myself. Making my own little creations that people will hopefully love. I haven't opened my shop yet (or even made an are youtube) but I hope that SOMEONE will enjoy my items and want to have them and cherish them.

I'm in my 30's and feel like I'm starting over in life... I'm artistic as well and still trying to find my niche, and have considered polymer clay. I just want to say how inspiring you are and how soothing your voice and demeanor is. I love watching your videos! And congrats on your success.

i’m a barista and i’ve always wanted this job i lowkey manifested it in my journal and now that i’m living it i’m so tired all the time and i’ve always known i don’t want to work for others and being self employed through my art and writing has always been my dream since i was a child. thank you for this video your voice is so calming and reassuring like sunlight and im so inspired through you.

There is nothing I love more than crocheting while I watch/listen to your videos. It really feels like we're crafting together, you are so easy to listen to and your videos are so calming and comforting. Thank you for everything you make, you are a bright spot in this world for me. 💛

I only discovered your channel recently but, it's given me so much comfort and inspiration in my own life so it's wonderful to get to know you a little better. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences with us! I'm 27, still trying to figure out what I want to do with my life and your videos helps me feel more content within myself to continue my own passions without putting too much pressure on myself! I'm looking forward to following you on your journey with art, friends and more. Keep it up! 💛

Tammy, I would like for you to know how much you've inspired me. You are the reason I have spent the past almost 3 weeks taking large steps to starting my own small business that I have been wanting to start for over a year. Yesterday I got my very first sale and it is all thanks to you and your motivational words and willingness to share information. As somebody who also majorly slacked in high school and has a lot of guilt surrounding that, I very much enjoy your "energy saving" perspective on the matter. I will continue to channel the energy I saved in high school into my art and business as I have realized that this is my passion as well. Thank you so much for being you

People around me always told me to draw on a bigger scale. But I enjoyed drawing portraits in miniature. These past few months I've tried what others said but it's been harming my mental health. After hearing your words I think I'm going to stick to drawing my way . I hope I'm making the right decision.

Tammy, your videos (and amazing artwork) are SO comfy! I love your channel! 😊

i loved this video, i was crocheting while you worked on clay and it felt like we were hanging out 💛 i’m a digital/graphic designer professionally an asian american woman, and we definitely CAN have fulfilling jobs that still can financially support us. i think you’re doing awesome work! and it may seem silly to the older generation to not have a 5 year plan, but listen, even if you did… it may not end up the way you envisioned so i think it’s fine that you don’t! i’m 26 and don’t have a five/ten year plan 😂 i just know it’s in the creative space too. hope you’re doing well! love from eastern WA/ID

I honestly think that her art is amazing! She is so young yet so successful! Whenever I order from her I am 1, super excited but I also think about how much effort and detail she puts into these orders!

You're wise for your age and you have a really good mindset :) Two things: check out the book Quiet by Susan Cain. I learned so much about my introversion from that book and my extroverted partner got a better understanding of me too. Hugely beneficial. Also, at 14:45 when you make the icing clay, you might be able to speed up the mashing process by using a joint knife or maybe even a palette knife. The extra surface area can smoosh more of the clay :)

I love watching these videos while I'm working on my own art projects, so comforting

From one artist that's anxious to another your videos are the highlight of my day when I see your post notification :) I'm loving getting back into art! I think being kind to yourself and doing acts of kindness to help with the creative blocks is such a good idea.

i have recently binge watched all of your videos because you're such an inspiration. i love your cozy vibes

I just discovered your channel recently, and you've helped me feel so much more content and confident in myself and to not put too much pressure on myself. I'm 25 and i graduate with my graphic design degree in two months . I've been stuck working service jobs for so long, but you've inspired me to want to start my own business and see where it could go. Thank you for sharing this video and more about yourself. I look forward to your future uploads (:

I've just come across this channel today and you are already such a huge inspiration to me. I've been passionate about art and have loved sculpting with clay for a long time, and you've given me hope that it is possible for me to ahieve what you have in the realm of business. Thank you for being authentic, kind, and sharing your creativity with us. 😊💕

Your art reminisce me of how much I missed clay sculpting when my African female teacher introduced it to me at Kindergartens. Your wisdom and positivity brings me the joy of returning to create art. Keep striving and thank you for sharing your experience.

Thank you so much for your vlogs. They are super inspiring and relaxing to watch. I am not as artistic as I am creative. I remember my high school graduation party (some 10+ years ago) I said I was going to be an animator, while others were talking about the usual dentist, doctor, lawyer, and teacher etc. I was laughed at by the crowd. Now I am graduating with my bachelor in Accounting. After seeing and watching many other creative small businesses I have found my passion again (at least I believe for now). After trying out my first polymer clay creation, I was just super excited and happy. Thanks again for doing what you do! 💖

Omg there was a time when clay charms was the thing and there were so many big YT channels for poly clay . I remember being so exited when Xoxo Rufus would upload and now you only hear about sculpted charms here and there. I’m glad some are preserving the art and the community ❤

You are so inspiring. I’ve been reading your comments and I’m blown away by your impact. I’m 38 and also an artist. My art is writing and while I have found a way to make a living out of it (I’m a content marketing director for a b2b digital marketing agency) I feel like I have been slowly shutting parts of myself down in order to conform to this role and it’s not even about the job- it’s me being out of alignment. It causes crippling anxiety and even a bit of addiction to creep into my life so I can cope. I’m okay. I’m healing all that but I’m also searching for the next step. Watching you is not only extremely relaxing and soothing, but I so admire your bravery to pursue art despite people’s best intentions of judging it as an unstable profession and I hope to find my own path toward something like you have but that fits my gifts and purpose. Thank you so much for also being vulnerable about suffering from anxiety. If you hadn’t been open about that I doubt I’d have had the courage to even share here in the comments. ❤

i love how calming is your voice, and you make me realize how much creativity and tenacity are important, thank you for inspiring us every day ❤️

So much love into the detail of every piece 💓 Its literally breathtaking.

My surroundings started to get really intense, and I got anxious, and then I saw your thumbnail and it felt like an island. It was exactly what I needed when I needed it.

So intelligent. Love your responses. Wish you the best of luck with everything in life!

14:45 sooo satisfying to watch the transformation of clay frosting.

That sponsored section caught me off guard lol, thanks for making this video. I'm happy I found your channel; your videos changed my perspective on life, and I'm not just saying that. Really, thank you.🐱

I'm currently in that state where I don't really have "friends." I'm okay with it. - I always remind myself with. As a senior in high school/upper secondary and learning adulthood stuff, I still value and know that socializing is good, but at the same time, I take my time with w/that thing. I've always enjoyed being 'alone' time because when I'm with someone, it sometimes gives me the 'ick' where I start overthinking or want to get this over with. But I realize that is enough to network slowly to meet someone I have known for a while. If I find people online, I'll rethink do I want to meet them IRL ever?! Who knows? Loving and caring for myself is essential, but my surroundings are crucial to keep me moving forward. Thank you for Uncomfy for inspirational video!

tammy i love your videos and your clay charms!! I've always wanted to get back to being creative again bc i love sewing and drawing, but i always get discouraged bc of school and being burnt out (getting my bachelors this spring!), seeing you do something your passionate about as your job is so inspiring and makes me hopeful that no matter what i decide to pursue in the future that i can still do the things that i love and make me happy :)

I get so excited when you post, thank you for sharing your experiences with us and showing people that you can make a living through art 😊❤

I'm already really excited for your plushies 😆 I know they're gonna look amazing. But I totally agree with you- the clay minis hit different and I'll never stop loving them ❤️ also thank you for being so vulnerable with us. It felt like I was having a nice conversation with a friend hehe

Your videos are bringing me so much peace. Thank you for that 💕

You know I think your generation gets alot of shit negatively spoken about it, but one thing I really admire is that so many of you openly speak of self love and how important it is to be kind to yourself as well as others. I don't remember that being a focus of my generation when i was 22. ( I'll be 40 nxt yr. Eek! Lol) I just stumbled on your videos. I'm an artist as well. I pray for continued success in all your efforts. Much ❤️ from Nashville TN.

Yayyyy! So happy that your posting more! Love these cozy videos, and your art! 💛

Its weird but, have u noticed how, when u have work to do u just dont feel anxious anymore, or sad or angry or anything, cuz u have other work stuff to think about, and then when u get anxious just start working and u forget about all of it, its weird but its called self therapy, and u calm down. I love it, cuz when i didnt have a job or didnt have things todo i was so down and depressive and all, but now even when things happen i just start drawing and i calm down amd ijust stop thinking about it cuz my attention is on the work.

Hi there Tammy, you talk about friendships and I can totally relates to that. Now that I am no longer working, I also need to push myself to maintain my friendship with my ex-colleagues and I try to see them every now and then. But i seems to be getting harder. My other group of friends through social media, was also put a stop as I cannot bring myself to be with so-called "un-opened minded" people. Well it seems like I am crawling into an isolated space. Got to think positive!

i'm watching this on my birthday after quite a sad day and you cheer me up watching. i hope one day i can have a business like yours 💕

I sincerely appreciate your videos. Thank you for sharing your experience in this way. ❤ You bring comfort, joy, and inspiration to me every time! I wish you happiness and success in all aspects of your life. Much comfort to you ✨

I feel so inspired by this, I decided to start my own small business and I was thinking to do print on demand, but after seeing a few of your videos I got inspired by your amazing artwork 😊

this was really nice to watch... ive been in uni for 4 years now and still haven't made any friends. its rough, but hearing you talk about the little effort will help me find friends, i hope ahha

I could watch you all day. Thank you for being you

I still find it crazy how you can work with such small, fiddly pieces!? 😍

Wow! I love your artwork!

Your videos are my absolute favourite! They make me feel so calm in this turbulent world ☺️

I love your little animals and other things you make. You have a great talent

So interesting to listen to your story. When I was a kid I wanted to be a potter, a patissiere or a baker (in that order) so I can relate to your interests. We don't know each other, yet I'm so proud of you for achieving your dream 😊

your creations are adorable ❤

You really remind me of Michelle Phan, not just because you're both Viet. The chill, thoughtful introverted, creative vibe and helpfulness are in sync. Thank you for this gentle and encouraging video!

hi there Tammy, I am very happy to discover your videos. At this moment, I am on crossroad...I want to make small things, but my creativity seems to have dissipated, through my career as an accountant although when young I laways ace my art classes. But art as you know do not generate good income (at that time) so through my father's suggestion, I went into accountancy. Been trying my hands at painting, bonsai and now clay but never success. You have inspired me and I am watching your videos in the hope that I get my creavity back. Thanks!

I just found your channel and I identify so much to everthing you said and to how I relate to my art, thank for this videos and you have one more follower and fellow artist admirer now 🥰

Yay🎉 another video to download for my own comfort...you are amazing💜💜💜💜

I'm so glad I found your channel. I'm struggling to learn so many things to start my channel and afraid of so many things that might go wrong. What if people don't like me cos I'm not an outgoing person and don't have many friends. I'm into Chocolate designing, Baking and Creative Desserts, more of Food Art kind. I'm struggling to setup my channel and so many new things to learn, from camera to photography and videoing, etc. Everything seems such a big task to me. But your sharing seems so encouraging and I'm gonna work hard to make it through. Even though what you do and what I'm doing is not the same, but they are both Art in different forms. Thank you so much. Stay Blessed.

Always love getting to know you and your work better ☺️ you're a beautiful soul

Thank you for making this video. You inspire me daily. Please continue to share your story with us, no matter how Uncomfy it is 😉

Girl, you rock!!!! I have the same dream as you to be a full time crafter and artist ❤ I’m also super uncomfy and anxious. So much so that I can’t hold a regular job at the present time but being my own boss and having my own flexible schedule and being able to work at home seems like it would be the perfect fit for me. Also if I did have a job of any kind I wouldn’t have anything emotionally or physically left to make art and I’d be devastated so being able to do what I love means everything to me and it’s what I want to pour my heart and soul into! You’ve definitely inspired me to keep believing in this and prove people wrong! >: ) keep being amazing! I feel like we’d be besties cause you’re so down to earth and sweet and real 😭

So cozy and inspiring 💜

Thanks so much for sharing your story and how you came to do your art. ♥

Your video just made me feel so relaxed!

your videos are always exactly what I need! I'm a writer so my art is a little bit different but your messages always help me feel better nonetheless. thank you

making art listening to this soothing episode, thank you

I also really hope to prove other people wrong one day soon~~~ ^^

i love this so much and it made me feel better about things, thank you :)

Very inspiring! I live in Denver too :) exciting to see someone from here

Wow you and I are so alike. Its like you’ve read my journal. Thanks for this video🥰

Hey Tammy! You inspired me so much im even planning to start my own business in the future! I hope to be as talented as you one day 💗

This was very comfy and beautiful thank you :}

Bruh, when you talk about friendship and how your tour through friend groups... I felt seen. I could never explain this to anyone but I truly long to have long term friends.

This is amazing! Youre amazing! I am a budding doll maker, soft sculptor and your channel is very inspirational and helpful! Also I find your organization ideas very helpful. Youre amazing! 😃. I will def do a sewing vlog. God bless and thank you so much!

I look forward to these videos ❤️☺️ they have helped me in a few different ways and I just want to say ✨thank you ✨

I love ur videos so much! And ur soo pretty and really good clay artist!🖤 I try my best to make cute charms❤ I hope one day I can make aesthetic vlogs like you do ✨

Enjoyable as always, thank you 💖

I recently found your channel, and I really love the cozy vibes! So I'm currenty majoring in stem, but I am not enjoying myself. I'm thinking about going into digital or graphic design but I'm unsure. I've always been more into creating art/music than science, but family pressure made me go into stem. How is digital design for you? Do you use what you learn in college and apply it your art business?

Oh how I love your videos there so good and comfy I feel like you're actually talking to me personally 😅 also keep up the good work you have so much more to do in life. Hope you have a good day and stay blessed 🖤 😊

You're so talented

Thank you for reminding me to message my one friend I have left, everyone else drifted away and now that this one friend reached out to me the past year I need to keep trying. I'm definitely not good at messaging even though I'd think of them here and there

OMG IM YOUR 4k LIKE. BTW I love your vids they bring me so much comfort and just makes me wanna become a small business owner.I really wish I could buy something from your shop but unfortunately I’m very broke lol. Keep up with the amazing videos and business!!!

Love your channel! 💗

I love ur vids it’s so amazing❤❤❤

16:10 reminded me of Elton John - Song for you. "If I was a sculptor, but then again: no / or a girl who makes beverages in a traveling show."

Tammy! I loveeee your videos! Thankyou so much for uploading!❤ What is the song you use on your videos during the outro?

I totally agree about having a hobby or passion preventing you from feeling lonely. I actually had the reverse thing happen as you. I was very much content being by myself but also enjoyed socializing with my friends. During quarantine I developed severe depression and experienced anhedonia (I stopped feeling happiness altogether and did not want to do the things I once enjoyed). It’s gotten a bit better, but I don’t have any passions or hobbies like I used to anymore. I have a lot of friends I love talking to, but I do not have a solid group and being alone is so painful now. I knowingly waste my time on social media to burn time and spend the other amounts of free time unknowingly dissociating. The only time I tend to feel happy out of school is when I’m talking to my friends, which is strange because I’m more introverted. Obviously that isn’t healthy, haha. I don’t know why anyone would have read this, but does anyone have any tips? Or maybe a good videogame or hobby to try? Thanks xo

As a matter of fact, I did enjoy this. I work for someone else, making miniatures. Wee Forest Folk. It’s not my business, but sometimes I have a say in what’s created. It’s morphed into a job, over the years, that I really love.

Can you please do a make-up tutorial? You look absolutely gorgeous! :3

Youre amazing

I’m really curious about your clay keycap process!! I’ve been wanting to try this forever - do you bake the keycap with the clay? Where do you get your keycaps? ☺️💗💗 Your videos are so inspiring to me!!

Thank you for a lovely video

Hi thanks for sharing your lifestorys so cozy i can look for aouers on your videos Love and hugs to next time.🥰

I love your videos Tammy

How long do you bake these ? Also how do you coat it in the finish? What is it? Anyone who puts the work in gets the results. That’s all that matters. No one looks at anything else. They see your hard work, and if what you’re making is what they want. I already am an artist as well... just only dabbled in polymer clay

OMG WE HAVE THE SAME STANLEY

I absolutely adore your videos.🥰 I was wondering what website you sell your sculptures on?

Hi Tammy. I'm a new subscriber to your RU-vid channel and an artist myself preparing to start my own channel. I have seen 3 of your videos now and I have Loved All of them. You have inspired me to start an Instagram account as well so thank you ☺️👍

i luv u smmm >

Hi! I like your channel, I recently subscribe :-) , your videos help me stay ground , and be able to concentrate to do my photography, I was wondering when are you opening back your website I want to place an order for a Coffebarra 🙂

Hey I was wondering how do you find the songs to put into your videos? They are always such a wholesome feeling relaxing vibe. Do you use a specific website?

The Sun Machine is coming down, and were gonna have a party. :)

So happy to have found your content. i wanted to know, is your desk from Ikea?

Wow, I adore how introspective and capable you are to put your point of view into words. You are a blessing and I am excited to show my 5 year old daughter your channel tomorrow ( she enjoys making little creatures/ animals out of play dough and paper :) Many blessings to you!