[Living Authentically as an Artist. Part 1] Quitting my job was called a waste, but I have zero regrets. The shortcut to making dreams come true is to never compromise.

Even if people say it's a 'waste,' I will live my own life. I am leaving my job to start a business as an artist.

This year, I will soon be taking early retirement from the workplace where I have worked for many years. It's not even the end of the fiscal year; it's really happening soon.

After twenty years, I have finally reached the entrance to my own way of life.

'What a waste,' 'Why would you do that?', 'I don't understand what you want to do.' I received many such words from the people around me. But that's fine.

Should I just keep living for the sake of living? Or should I steer toward the life my heart desires?

Without hesitation, I chose the latter. My life is stable. A decent salary, monthly security, a job title, and social credibility. I am in a sufficiently blessed position. But that is not truly 'my own life'.

To express is to live.

I want to express. I want to convey something to someone. I want to resonate with someone. I have an urge to shout through words, movements, and works.

I do not express to live; expressing is what it means to live.

I will make a living through expression. The money needed to live will be generated from my expression. I have been seeking such a way of life. I cannot end my life regretting that I didn't try. And now, I am turning that wish into reality.

Ten million yen is not a means, but a 'vow.' That is why I am starting a business.

My goal is an annual income of 10 million yen. I don't care if people laugh and call it reckless. When you achieve something people laugh at, it should move their hearts.

I will start by earning one yen. Create value myself, and deliver it to someone. Everything starts from there.

This choice is not an 'escape,' but a return to the 'origin of myself' that I have been chasing for nearly 20 years. 'To become a light for someone.' Here, I will record my journey. Not just the successes and failures, but also the hesitation and weakness. So that even if I get lost, I can return here.

Everything about my journey should become a light for someone else who is struggling in the same way.

I look forward to your support from here on out.