Dear Rad Jesus,
I’m in college, and lately, I’ve been feeling a lot of pressure about my future. I know I have a real talent for art—people always tell me I’m gifted and that I should go after it. The thing is, I’m scared. I don’t want to fail, and sometimes it feels easier to just play it safe and stick with a major like business, something that has a more “reliable” future. I’ve seen friends chase their passions and end up struggling, and I’m worried
that might be me.
At the same time, I feel guilty. Like, if I really have this gift, shouldn’t I use it instead of hiding it away? I don’t want to disappoint my family or myself, but I also don’t want to take the leap and fall flat. What would you do?
- Signed, Torn and Terrified
Response
Dear T & T,
Dude, looks like you’ve got some rad talent vibes, and that’s both awesome and a heavy load, ya know? You’re at a gnarly fork in the road every young artist hits: play it chill or take the plunge. It’s totally normal to feel the pressure, but here’s a thought that might spark you.
Picture a dude scoring some gnarly loot, like a rad treasure. Some brotatos totally go for it and ride that wave, even if they can’t predict the swell. Others dig a hole and hide their stash, hoping it’ll stay safe. But check it: talent buried deep won’t grow or touch others the way it's meant to.
Art’s like a killer gift ‘cause it lets you splash something fresh, something only you can whip up. Just like scoring a sick wave, putting your talent out there is a risk, especially when the future feels wobbly. Though it might not seem stable, artists today have mad options, more than ever! You could turn your art into a business, ride the freelance wave, or mash up your art with other skills to create something totally lit.
The world’s way cooler when peeps share their stoke. Yeah, challenges might pop up—but those gnarly moments often lead to some sick growth, not just in skills but in confidence too. Staying stoked in the face of uncertainty is a boss move - one that respects the talent you got.
If it feels heavy, bro, no need to dive all at once. Carve out some time for art, dude, and see how it vibes with your future, but keep a backup plan. Remember: chillin' in the whitewater feels secure, but catching that huge face lets you unleash your gnarliest potential, bro! Trust yourself, invest in your vibe, and keep your stoke alive for what’s possible!
- Your friend in Stoke, Rad