Taking Responsibility For Your Music Career

“Every time you think the problem is 'out there,' that very thought is the problem.”

~ Stephen Covey

I read Stephen Covey’s book, The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, many, many years ago. Since then, there have been very few days when I haven’t thought about one of those habits in one way or another. Incorporating those seven habits into my career, musical development, and personal life has positively impacted my journey in more ways than I could have ever imagined.

The quote above is from the author’s discussion on the first habit, “Be Proactive.” Being proactive isn’t simply about taking initiative. At its core, being proactive is about taking responsibility for our life. It is not waiting for just the right circumstances or that lucky break but creating them for our self. It is the declaration that we are the captain of our ship and it is not about the storms or the calm seas that determines our progress, it is our response to those circumstances that determines our successes or failures.

When we blame others or our circumstances for our problems, we give away our power. In essence, we are saying, individuals or circumstances are more powerful than we are. Worse, we are saying we do not have what it takes to overcome those challenges. But just like navigating the seas in a sailboat, we need to learn to read and harness the winds—or lack of them. It is easy to sail when the winds are favourable, but the winds are seldom just “right.” We can learn to sail in any weather, if we know how to adjust our sails. Interestingly enough, storms are where we get the opportunity to really hone our skills and discover our resolve. 

The music industry is constantly changing and we must learn to recognize opportunities—in any circumstance—in order to build our music business. It is not always easy and at times can be very frustrating but it is those challenges that help us discover what we are made of.

I hope you will not allow your thoughts, excuses, or circumstances prevent you from pursuing your musical dreams. I invite you to join this community and receive the support, encouragement, and inspiration you need to realise your personal and professional aspirations.