Year of creation: 2024
 
This painting tells the story of my inner child who has found peace in this adult world.
In 2021 I felt depressed, had panic attacks, cried a lot, was constantly tired, had no energy, and had regular stomach aches and headaches.
Yes, I burned out, felt lost and had no goals left. I was full of negative thoughts.
How can I survive mentally in a world where dreamers are laughed at and dreams are constantly labeled as broth? I felt like my inner child had been closed off by society's expectations.
It took me more than a year to realize what I needed and longed for.
That being in the office 40 hours a week is not my life.
I needed more.
My hands and brain had to create a colorful world for dreamers.
So after another year, completely exhausted, I decided to quit my full-time job as a team leader and take a break for at least a year.
I started painting regularly again.
I made my passion my new purpose and put my dreams and hopes on my canvas.
And my body and mind responded immediately.
I felt stronger, happier and healthier again.
I regained my energy and my mental health was back to its former glory.
However, I still enjoy the social life and after a year I decided to work part time in another office job because I missed my colleagues. This allowed me to continue to pursue my dream as a professional artist.
I got my life back.
I realized that I can decide what I want in life and not others, that my fears never came true and that I can achieve (almost) anything I want.