What It’s About

A classic creator’s dilemma.

Notes from Chris

Episode 3051

Building a business often means juggling what you love to create with what the market demands—and that balance can feel tricky, even frustrating. Today’s question comes from Martin in Chicago, who designs custom wooden desk organizers. While his intricate, passion-driven pieces light him up, his customers gravitate toward simpler designs that are easier to produce. Let’s talk about how to find that sweet spot between staying true to your creative passion and growing a profitable business.

“Hey Chris, Martin here from Chicago. I’m completely obsessed with crafting one-of-a-kind wooden desk organizers—designing each piece is what lights me up. The problem? They take forever to produce, and customers usually gravitate toward my simpler, easier-to-make versions. Part of me feels like I should focus on what sells well, but that means churning out items I don’t find as inspiring. On the other hand, if I stick to my passion pieces, I’m worried I won’t make enough money to grow. How can I strike the right balance between doing what I love and offering what the market clearly wants?”

Listen to today’s episode to learn more…

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SEE ALSO:

• Catholic Designer Creates Stylish Apparel Line: What shall it profit a man to gain the whole world but not sell any t-shirts? This designer cast his bread upon the waters and ended up with a profitable fashion line.
• Seattle Couple Creates New “Income LiveStream”: When a married couple runs into logistical problems at their wedding, it leads to an innovative service that other engaged couples need during the pandemic.
• Role-Playing Pastor Rolls The Dice On $2800/Month Hustle: Listener success story! This Presbyterian minister turns to his lifelong interest in role-playing games to set up a sustainable second income source.

Inspiration is good; inspiration combined with action is better. Now get back to work!

Yours in the revolution,

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