SelfHelpCollective.com

Inspiration From Bereavement...

by Dave
(Huddersfield)

My uncle died last year. He'd been an office clerk all his life, as had my dad, a lovely man who stuck in the same (going nowhere) job for fifty years.

When my uncle died (interesting it wasn't when my dad died) I had a moment of clarity, realised we only get one shot at life, and at fifty-seven my shot was probably half way done already (at least).

So... my dream has always been to make my living as a creative maker of hand made, useful, beautiful objects. I'd spent thirty plus years mostly as a social care manager sorting out and helping others find/achieve their dreams.

My partner and I talked for hours, and I made the break, handed my notice in and left social work last September. It was scary, exciting, made me nervous, and was the best thing I've ever done. It takes faith - in yourself, and in something/someone bigger than yourself to believe you can do it... but what's the worst that can happen - you fail, and try again.

(See Abraham Lincoln's story for how many times you may need to try again...)

Now I have a workshop and shop in Lindley (in West Yorkshire, UK), selling beautiful things made by local people, recycled vintage furniture, and walls hung with local artists' work - people who wouldn't get space in a gallery... And we have great fun putting on courses in ceramics, painting, jewellery making, felt making and other stuff.

By the way my income dropped significantly and continues to be a challenge, but who can put a true value on being content, fulfilled, and, dare I say it, happy? Money isn't everything, and it's certainly not the only thing that makes the world go round.

So if you live nearby, come for a coffee and tell us your dreams, we'd love to hear them!

Dave
http://www.thecraftworkshophuddersfield.co.uk/


STEVE COMMENT:
Disclaimer: I happen to know Dave a little, as he has a connection with my family - first my Mum worked with him many years ago, and now my sister is working with him in The Craft Workshop he talks of above.

Having said that, the few times I've met him I've found a man who's finally committed to living his joy - and part of that joy includes connecting with others, inspiring them (in some small way) to live their joy too. Which is completely in alignment, I'd like to think, to the philosophy behind this Self help Collective site.

So to anyone who lives near Huddersfield, or even in the wider area of West Yorkshire, I highly recommend you visit The Craft Workshop and see what creative juices you might well stir inside of you...