Can you draw me? Woah, can you make me one of those? Oh my gosh, you should totally write a book for me! Dude, I want to lose weight - will you make me a meal/workout plan? I totally want my own website, can you hook me up? You design logos? I don’t have a business or anything, but I totally need a logo!

When the world finds out you have a creative ability, it’s like opening a pack of gum in middle school. Everyone wants a piece. Usually without thanks, and usually only admired for a short period.

Artists don’t owe you a portrait.

Writers don’t owe you a character.

Crafters don’t owe you a bookshelf, table, personalized mug, or a onesie for your baby.

Trainers don’t owe you diets or plans.

Designers don’t owe you any digital work.

Photographers don’t owe you a photoshoot and edited prints.

For some reason, this seems to be really hard for people to understand. However, it works the same way as any other profession. Artists don’t owe you anything, just like these people:

Tax preparers don’t owe you free tax prep.

Soldiers don’t owe you bodyguard services.

Company presidents don’t owe you free services and swag.

Crew members at fast food restaurants don’t owe you free burgers (even if they are super talented at making them)

Construction workers don’t owe you a free shed, built by hand.

Airline workers don’t owe you plane tickets.

Unlike many assume, any creative and artistic talent comes through practice, dedication, and lots of time. Those in ‘non-creative’ jobs (I think all jobs have creative aspects, but let’s just call them this to make it easier to differentiate the two) work their way up the ladder through years of work and workplace competition. They are different, but they are also a lot alike.

Please understand, creative products do not just spontaneously generate. An artist does not just touch paper and create a lovely charcoal portrait. A photographer does not point an iphone and capture a perfect snapshot. Everything created costs money. Whether it be charcoal or pencil costs, website or software fees, paper, machines, education (Yes, many of us pay for school to become professionals in our creative endeavors).

They take time. I cannot tell you the endless hours spent erasing, editing, redoing on anything even remotely creative.

Most importantly, they take a little piece of the creator. Every piece of art, every product, drawing, website, etc., takes a little piece of the maker’s soul. Creative people are especially known for infusing themselves into their work, creating unique products. If all you see is a cute mug or a pretty picture, maybe you should go try to make it yourself.

Now, as a creative, I’m not saying that I don’t do my friends and family favors. Sometimes people ask nicely and catch me on a generous day. I do give things away frequently, especially if the person who has requested it is truly appreciative and genuine. But as a human that needs to eat and pay rent, I cannot afford to give all of my products away for free.

Do you want something from a creative person? Offer to pay for it. Life is not about money, of course. But, by offering to pay for their services, you are letting that person know that you truly appreciate their skills. You are showing them that you understand the money, time, and effort that goes into every little project. You are thanking them for creating you a totally unique and personalized product.

Creative people don’t owe you anything. Remember that.