The First Question to Ask: How Are You, Really?

You’re applying for jobs, pouring your soul into your art, scrolling through endless LinkedIn posts of people “thriving,” and wondering when your turn will come. Maybe you’ve graduated from one of the top art schools. Maybe you’ve freelanced here and there. Maybe you’ve worked in hospitality to make ends meet, and you’re tired of pretending you love it. Meanwhile, your inbox is full of “unfortunately” emails. And it starts to chip away at you. So before we talk about portfolios, cover letters, or clients — let me ask you something simple: How are you?