Terrific article, Jon! Your points are spot on. I retired early from a successful (but unsatisfying) corporate career in order to create.

I downsized my life, but upsized my happiness.

I spend every single day creating things. Sometimes stories, sometimes mobile apps, sometimes collage art, sometimes....you get the idea.

I gave up a boatload of money for days filled with creative activities that ultimately bring me peace and happiness.

No more FML for me. ILML is my motto.

Thanks for the kick of inspiration to get me creating again today!