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Can We Stop Pressuring Each Other To Monetize Our Hobbies?

It makes us not want to do them anymore

Alfie Jane
5 min readMay 22, 2023
Photo by Joice Kelly on Unsplash

“What’s the point in doing it when you’re not getting paid for it?”

I’m not a violent person, but if someone asks me this question, it’s hard to not punch them in the throat.

Think about it. How would you feel if you had a hobby you loved and talked about with a friend? Imagine what goes through your head when you hear someone saying it’s stupid because you’re not getting paid.

For Starters, It’s Not Always Practical

When I’m not trying to make it as a writer, and not at my job, I’m involved in community theatre. I like taking pictures, too.

I’m decent in both these fields and can give you some pictures as proof from my most recent travels. I wouldn’t call myself professional, but I’d say I can see a good opportunity.

Will I start making a business from my pictures? No. Professionals go through schooling and spend tons of money on equipment. I’m good, but I’m not calling myself a photographer because I know how to point and shoot from my phone. (Granted, I learned that from trying a Picfair store for a bit, but it’s still a lesson.)

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