How do you cope with the pressure of family expectations about your craft?

Many of us in the Garanke community know the struggle of balancing our passion for leatherworking with the weight of family expectations. Whether it’s the pressure to succeed, make a profit, or even just conform to traditional ideas of what a “real job” is, it can feel like a lot to handle. One thing that really helped me was setting boundaries. I started by having honest conversations with my family about what leatherworking means to me. Explaining that it’s not just a hobby but a craft that I’m passionate about made a difference. For some of us, that might mean showcasing our work more often, so they see the dedication and skill involved. Sharing photos of finished pieces or talking about the process can help them understand why we invest so much time and energy into our craft. Another approach that’s been beneficial is finding support within our community. I reached out to others in the Garanke group who are experiencing similar pressures. Just connecting with someone who understands the unique challenges we face can be a game-changer. We started sharing tips and even collaborating on projects, which not only boosts our confidence but also lessens that feeling of isolation. It's important to remind ourselves that our journey is our own. Many of us deal with the fear of disappointing our families, but we also have to remember that our craft is valid, regardless of external expectations. Taking small steps toward our own goals and celebrating our progress, no matter how small, can help shift our focus. Anyone else feeling the weight of family expectations around your craft? It can be tough to navigate, but sometimes just talking to someone who gets it makes all the difference. What’s helped you cope with this pressure?