When I was younger, I felt a lot of pressure to “become successful.” Like many of us, I believed success was something that could be achieved by checking off specific boxes—getting a high-paying job, climbing the corporate ladder, owning a big house, and being seen as accomplished in the eyes of others. But as an artist and event manager at Kamloops Art Party, I’ve learned that true success is something far more personal and, ultimately, more fulfilling: loving what you do.
The Pressure to "Become Successful"
Growing up, the path to success was always portrayed as a straight line. Study hard, get a good job, make money, repeat. I remember feeling like there was an invisible clock ticking, constantly reminding me to meet those expectations—whether from society, family, or even myself. I used to think that to be successful, I needed to push aside my passions, especially when it came to art, and pursue something more “stable” or “traditional.” I didn’t know back then that there’s a different way to define success—a way that starts with loving what you do.
How I Discovered My Path
When I first got involved with Kamloops Art Party, it wasn’t with the intention of making it my life’s work. I just knew I wanted to create. I wanted to inspire people, connect with the community, and share the joy that comes from making something with your own hands. The more I immersed myself in painting, event planning, and connecting with people through art, the more I realized that this was where my passion was—and where my success could truly lie.
Through Kamloops Art Party, I found that the most rewarding part of my job wasn’t in how much money I made or how much recognition I received, but in seeing the smiles on people’s faces as they unleashed their own creativity. I saw firsthand how art has the power to bring joy, confidence, and a sense of achievement to others. That feeling of fulfillment, of knowing I was making a positive impact, is what success feels like to me now.
Redefining Success
I’ve come to understand that success isn’t one-size-fits-all. For some, it may still be that corner office or a huge paycheck, and that’s perfectly okay. But for me, success is in the passion I bring to my work every day. It’s in seeing how my team at Kamloops Art Party grows and thrives. It’s in watching participants come alive during one of our Sip & Paint events or seeing a child light up while learning pottery techniques.
By stepping away from the rigid expectations of what success “should” look like, I found something much more valuable—happiness and contentment. And that’s the message I want to share with others. Don’t be afraid to pursue your passion. It may take time, and it may not always follow a traditional path, but if you truly love what you do, that’s where you’ll find your greatest success.
Loving What You Do is Key
If there’s one thing I’ve learned as both an artist and event manager, it’s that loving what you do matters more than anything else. When you’re passionate about your work, it doesn’t feel like work at all. Challenges become opportunities to grow, and success is measured by the fulfillment you feel each day.
So, if you’re feeling stuck or pressured to follow a path that doesn’t resonate with you, take a moment to reflect on what truly excites and inspires you. Pursue it wholeheartedly. For me, it was finding a space where art, creativity, and community came together—and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
Success, as I now know it, is loving what you do and doing what you love. And trust me, that’s the best feeling in the world.
We can’t wait to create with you at Kamloops Art Party!
Cheers,
Marcie Mutch
C.O.O & Events Manager / Artist
Kamloops Art Party
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