When I first began looking for work, I had entered the school where I was currently employed asking for just that kind of job, but had settled for the available administrative position, when I realized they had no ceramics department.
When the owner saw my face light up, he exclaimed, NOT you! We are going to tie you to this desk so you never leave. It was meant as a joke and a compliment, but I had the sudden gut realization that if I continued to work for other people, I would never earn my living as an artist.
That moment fueled the fire that has brought me to where I am now.