If someone asked you this question, how would you answer?

If you could immediately say, “Of course, if it sells, you should call yourself one!” then you must be a straightforward and positive person. On the other hand, some might hesitate, thinking, “Well, I’m not sure if that’s enough…” Honestly, I used to fall into the latter group.

These days, I work at a manufacturing company, run a blog, offer counseling services, and spend my spare time creating illustrations. In other words, I live the life of a “parallel worker,” and I’m discovering how fulfilling it can be.

What Does It Mean to Be a Parallel Worker?
A “parallel worker” is someone who pursues multiple jobs simultaneously, managing them in parallel. In the past, dedicating oneself entirely to a single career was seen as the norm, but times have changed. Today, having a diverse portfolio of careers is often celebrated.

I’ve built my life around my job at a manufacturer, writing a blog, providing counseling, and now exploring illustration as a budding profession. Each of these activities allows me to explore my interests and develop my skills in unique ways, making the life of a parallel worker deeply rewarding.

Why the Hesitation About Titles?
So, does selling one illustration make you an illustrator?

As a parallel worker, one’s identity isn’t defined by just one job. Instead, all your activities coexist and influence one another. This interplay can create uncertainty about which titles to adopt.

When a friend suggested I start calling myself an illustrator, I hesitated. Compared to professional illustrators, I felt like I wasn’t “there yet.” But then I realized something crucial: “Titles are not for others; they are for yourself.”

The Power of Claiming a Title
When I began calling myself an illustrator, I noticed a shift. I started taking my illustration work more seriously. Opportunities began to arise through connections from blogging and counseling, and I found myself motivated to hone my craft further.

For parallel workers, titles aren’t just labels—they are a way to express what you value and how you wish to grow.

Everything You Do Becomes Part of You
The beauty of being a parallel worker lies in how each job, while distinct, complements the others. Writing blogs enhances my communication skills for counseling sessions, while insights gained through counseling inspire the themes of my illustrations.

This interconnectedness adds depth to my identity, with each activity building on and enriching the others.

Calling Yourself an Illustrator as a Parallel Worker
Deciding whether to call yourself an illustrator is ultimately about embracing your identity as a parallel worker.

The key question is how you feel about the title. If calling yourself an illustrator gives you the confidence to take your work seriously and pursue new opportunities, then there’s no reason to hesitate. And if adopting such a title adds to the richness of your life, it’s absolutely worth it.

You, Too, Can Be a Parallel Worker
The desire to “try out many different jobs” is a driving force for living as a parallel worker. By breaking free from the constraints of a single career and embracing multiple passions, life becomes far more interesting and fulfilling.

Being a parallel worker opens up possibilities and helps uncover hidden talents. Each new activity and title becomes a chapter in your unique story, making life more colorful and exciting.

Conclusion
If you sell an illustration, can you call yourself an illustrator? The answer depends on whether you take pride in the title.

As a parallel worker, enjoy exploring different jobs and cultivating titles that reflect your passions. May your life become even more vibrant, diverse, and free.

“What title will you create for yourself next?”

ARTWITHME