A tale of belonging vs Search for an agent

Once again, I am in search of an agent to collaborate with. Someone as eager, hardworking, open-minded and professional as me. Someone likeminded. Thus, once we click, we tailor our unique powers, aka crafts and our careers together.

So far, my career has been evolving well without an agent. It has been three and a half years since I made the switch from a full-time designer. However, I feel it in my bones that an agent could be highly beneficial for things to start shifting and for the next phase to open up the horizon of the path I am paving.

It is tough, though. There is the ocean of them, and here is me, not belonging anywhere.

What does belonging have to do with it? You may wonder. I cannot help but wonder that too. As I do not truly belong where I physically exist, the agents do not feel secure in playing their cards on me. I was told after my various attempts that their books and focus were open to “local” talent.

How can one be local?
How can one belong?

Why is belonging so vital in the type of representation I am seeking? What is it that scares the minds and makes people hold their horses tightly? I have never been a victim of fear for the unknown. I take risks. I find my way while floating from one stream to the other.

Dear reader, do not get me wrong.
I am not typing this post in resentment either. I will keep on doing the work, which eventually will pay off.

It is just that giant question mark in me that remains unanswered, which I dyingly command to unravel. Why does belonging matter so much in my profession's tale that demands moving strangers' emotional state where an honest presence and genuine connection could be enough?

Do you have an answer?

Whatever you do #behumblefirst

photo credit: Bas Niemans, @photosarebullets