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I think there is a psychological effect of the slowing economy that makes people more tuned into their own creativity and resourcefulness. So it's no surprise to me that my peers who I have spoken to in the creative industries are experiencing a rise in sales, or that local entrepreneurs are collaborating with each other and seizing opportunities to start businesses and hire employees.

Over 50% of jobs are created by small businesses -not by the large corporations that have enjoyed the recent government bailouts and lack of accountability that small businesses and entrepreneurs work so hard to maintain. Entrepreneurs must often manage their financial books, marketing plans, taxes, and employee responsibilities all by themselves while still remaining innovative and productive. Yet they continue to succeed. Yet they grow.

My friend Stefanie Monge who is a local reporter believes that people have not stopped spending; they are merely making more meaningful purchases. And really, isn't that what the craft industries and local businesses are all about? When people support innovative and forward-thinking businesses in their own communities, perhaps they see their dollar going even farther.

On the other hand, the crafting industry is not driven as much by profit as by personal satisfaction and the sharing of ideas. I think consumers are tuned into that. Some people would rather spend more money for a higher quality handmade product, especially in niche industries like weddings and specialty clothing. By buying handmade on places like Etsy or making things themselves, consumers not only get a great product, but they also achieve some self-fulfillment from the knowledge that they have either created something themselves or have supported another independent manufacturer. Consumers get pleasure from buying handmade because they can see some humanity in the product.

I believe it's this next generation of young professionals that will be pulling us out of our economic problems. By acting locally, working together, and creating a sense of community, these creative new innovators are laying the groundwork for years of economic strength and success.

People my age have been networking throughout their entire adult lives, thanks to early tools like chat rooms and ICQ and newer applications like MySpace and Facebook. It's this familiarity and openness that creates the conditions for industry growth and collaboration.

Just look at the anticipation and excitement building for this year's first annual Big Omaha event, which is sold out and pulling in attendees from all over the country. The innovation and excitement in Omaha (which is also one of the only major metropolitan cities expected to experience job growth this year) is pulling national professionals like bunnies to my dandelion-filled backyard.

I am going to Big Omaha because being an artist is not only creating, it's running a business. And as an entrepreneur, I'm excited to attend an event where I can meet other entrepreneurs and forward-thinkers who work in creative industries. I'm so happy that Big Omaha is emphasizing business and technology and welcoming the artists, musicians, and designers, and writers– those of us who are normally in the minority at these conferences.

My job as a creative professional is just as much about designing and creating crafts as it is about business. And Big Omaha will be a great opportunity to meet other professionals and learn how to make my dream job even more fun.

So yeah, if you have a good idea, do it. Juuuust do it. Create the life you always wanted doing what you always wanted to do, and you will be fueling growth and creating jobs at the same time. Get excited!