In the world of online business, you’re constantly told to “niche down,” “optimize,” and “follow what’s trending.” Every guru has a formula — a “proven system” to make your shop go viral or your sales skyrocket.
But here’s my truth: I don’t follow the gurus. I don’t build my brand like a traditional business.
I create like an artist — and I lead with passion.
And I’m okay with growing slower because of it.
The Gurus Say: Stick to the Plan
When you’re in print-on-demand or any creative business, the advice is usually:
Batch your content
Schedule your launches
Focus only on what’s selling
That might work for some. But I didn’t start AbbysCreativeEscape to be a machine.
I started it to express something real — to support mental health, spread joy, and celebrate pets and creativity.
Passion Doesn’t Follow a Schedule
One of the biggest reasons I stopped listening to the gurus is this: passion isn’t predictable.
Inspiration doesn’t show up neatly on a content calendar. And I don’t force myself to create when I’m drained — I create when something moves me.
Whether it’s a design idea sparked by a quote I saw, or a new product that feels like the perfect cozy reminder someone out there needs, I follow the flow. That’s when the best ideas come.
It’s not the most “efficient” way to run a business — but it’s the most honest one.
Business Without Soul Isn’t Worth It
Sure, I could make more money if I chased trends. I could probably grow faster if I focused only on what the market wants.
But I wouldn’t love it. And that’s a dealbreaker.
I want my work to mean something. I want people to wear my hoodies or gift my stickers and feel seen, supported, or inspired — not just part of someone else’s sales funnel.
Creating With Passion Is a Strategy
It may not be fast.
It may not always be organized.
But it’s real. And that’s what people connect with.
When you lead with passion:
You show up consistently when it counts
You build trust with your audience
You create things that last beyond a trend
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Final Words: Trust Yourself More Than the Gurus
If you’re building something heartfelt, creative, and personal — don’t let “business rules” kill your spark. Passion doesn’t run on a strict timeline. It’s messy. It’s spontaneous. And it’s powerful.
Let your creativity guide you. That’s where the real magic happens.
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