Leaving Google to Become an Artist: Sara Wilczynska's Journey

In this episode of The School of Imperfection Podcast, Mikie Krisztal chats with Sara Wilczynska of Swil Arts about her inspiring journey from a corporate software engineer at Google to a full-time artist. They explore the realities of chasing passion, the importance of nuance, and the small, meaningful moments in a creative life.Main Topics:Sara's transition from Google software engineer to artistThe messy reality of entrepreneurial and artistic pursuitsNavigating fear, doubt, and societal scripts when making big life changesEmbracing nuance and complexity in personal growthBuilding an accessible and sustainable creative business rooted in communityThe significance of small moments and presence over quick transformationsThe role of societal narratives and marketing in personal evolutionPractical steps for those considering leaving corporate life for artEnvironmental and social responsibility in art business practicesTimestamps:00:01 - Welcome to the School of Imperfection Podcast 00:30 - Sara’s story: from a corporate job at Google to Southeast Asia 01:25 - The spiritual and entrepreneurial journey of art making 02:15 - Art as a healing and growth process 02:42 - First steps in Sara's artist journey and organic growth 03:21 - The influence of childhood creativity and cultural background 03:57 - Transition from tech to art, feeling misaligned at Google 04:26 - Exploring side projects like yoga and sound healing 05:22 - The decision to take a travel sabbatical and create space 07:06 - Artistic experimentation with watercolors in Thailand 07:57 - Sharing art and receiving feedback from friends and clients 08:24 - Growing Swil Arts and diversifying product offerings 09:20 - Collaborations with brands and community-centered projects 10:15 - Current focus: regional inspired artwork and sustainable products 11:09 - Connecting with the San Diego artist community 12:15 - Discovering the San Diego Artist Incubator program through social media 13:12 - The story behind the name Swil Arts 13:34 - Financial aspirations and financial sustainability 14:33 - The leap of faith and living in expensive San Diego 15:23 - The messy reality and non-linear path of entrepreneurship 16:01 - Avoiding quick fixes and embracing small wins 17:00 - The importance of nuance in growth and healing 18:11 - Gratitude for current work despite stress and challenges 19:02 - Shifting perspective on healing modalities and quick success 20:05 - Focusing on small, present moments rather than grand transformations 21:29 - Nuance and complexity in social and personal issues 22:12 - Lessons learned: gradual transition versus abrupt change 23:35 - Creating spaciousness and questioning societal scripts 25:02 - The importance of listening to inner truth versus societal expectations 26:23 - Differentiating fear from protective mechanisms 27:34 - Embracing introversion and authenticity 28:26 - Parts work and inner conflict exploration 29:52 - Holding paradoxes and embracing multiple truths 30:00 - The need for nuance in societal discourse 31:40 - The role of personal agency and living by example 33:02 - How neuroscience supports the idea of reality creation 34:36 - Sara’s vision for approachable art and collaborations 36:06 - Upcoming projects: San Diego inspired coloring book 37:07 - The artistic process: ink first or watercolor first 39:07 - Inspiration from local landmarks and community themes 41:07 - Eco-conscious practices and giving back through art 43:19 - Connecting with Sara: website and social channels 44:24 - San Diego local venues to find Sarah’s work 45:00 - Closing thoughtsResources & Links:Swil Arts WebsiteSan Diego Artist Incubator ProgramConnect with Sara:InstagramFacebookTikTokPinterestBuy Me a CoffeeLinkedInThank you for tuning in to explore the complex path of creative entrepreneurship with us. Remember, small moments of presence and authenticity are often the best guides on your journey.