The joy of Creation: How Passion Projects Become "Babies" for Those Without Kids

THOUGHTS BROUGHT TO YOU BY: SHANA BREWER (PARALLEL MEMBER)

If you are doing life without kids, I’m sure you’re constantly asked about IF and WHEN you are going to have a baby. Parenthood is often viewed by society as the primary path to life fulfillment, however I’ve found that many people can find deep meaning and purpose in nurturing their creative or entrepreneurial pursuits. 

My spouse and I are choosing to live a life without children, and I find fulfillment in my creative passions and projects. The process of building something from scratch –  whether it’s a business, a novel, or an indie film, can require constant attention, patience, and dedication. They can keep us up at night, demand financial investment, and consume vast amounts of time and mental energy. As creators, we experience joy and pride as our projects take shape, evolve, and eventually make their way into the world.

My passion project is an indie film I have been producing since the opportunity first presented itself 3 years ago. A dear screenwriter and actor friend asked for help on getting his script made. Although I had zero experience with filmmaking, I enthusiastically said yes!, because I just love new challenges. Working closely with my core producing team, I have poured my heart and soul into this film titled “Purple”. It has required careful nurturing from its inception – everything from crafting the story, finding the right cast and crew, securing locations, principal photography, a long post-production process, all while navigating a complex world of film production as a first-time filmmaker. 

A recent research study conducted by the market research firm Ipsos found that nearly 9 in 10 adults who engage in creative activities experience immense joy upon completing a project. Like raising a child, passion projects and creative pursuits involve both the rewarding and painstaking process of shaping a life. The outcome – a thriving business, a published novel, a finished film, can feel like an extension of oneself, a legacy left behind.

I’m happy to announce that “Purple” is finally going to premiere at the end of March, after working on it for 3 years. I’m so excited to be able to show this film (my “baby”) to audiences and hopefully leave a lasting impression. 

Living without children doesn’t mean leading an unfulfilled life. For many like myself, our "babies" are the creative endeavors that we pour our time, energy, and love into. These businesses or projects can bring meaning and contribute to the world in unique and powerful ways. After all, leaving a legacy isn’t only through bloodlines, it can also be through the impact we leave behind from things we create and share.

To find out more about “Purple”, visit the film website here. Hopefully coming to a theater near you or streaming platform in the near future.