This is a question that I have been thinking about a lot recently. I’m a musician in the process of writing a couple of books. The books are about “why” and “how” to succeed as an independent artist – author or musician.
I believe that internal motivation is one of the major factors that determines the success or failure of a project. You have to have a powerful “why” and I don’t think that wanting to earn money with your book or music is a good enough “why” to succeed. I’m not suggesting that having a desire or goal to be well paid for your work is bad or wrong – it’s just not a strong enough reason to put forth the tremendous amount of time and hard work that succeess demands.
Your “why” is extremely personal and is different for every person. These different motivations produce such a wonderful variety of books and music that enrich our society.
The music I write is a cross between new age and classical. When I first began recording, my main motivation was ego. I thought I was better than certain established New Age Artists and to prove it I planned to go around performing in front of large crowds and make tons of money. (not a very good “why”)
About two months after the release of my CD I developed tendinitis and nerve inflammation in my arms and wrists. I couldn’t play the piano anymore. During the next 18 months of rehab I had a lot of time to think. I also wrote the music for a solo piano CD (Still not recorded). Now that my arms and wrists are feeling better I have done some performing with my friend Scott. Performing with him has been a great experience because it helped me realize that my “why” wasn’t good enough to succeed financially as a musician. Scott is a true performer. He thrives on stage. He focuses on his fans and his fans love him for it. He performs all the time. I realized that wasn’t me and not what I want to do. I don’t want to travel all the time performing. I want to write and play the piano on my own schedule – not conducive behavior for a successful musician. I want people think I’m a good composer and a good pianist and I don’t want to travel the world performing 200+ days/year. I would like perform a 6-10 times a year. That is sufficient for me.
That experience as a musician, plus listening to the challenges writers face trying to get a traditional publishing deal have given me a “why” that I am really passionate about. My whole purpose right now is to help independent authors and musicians succeed. I am going to be part of a Writer’s Workshop Sept. 19th with the theme How to make money as a writer. I get to speak to authors about taking control of the careers and how to achieve indie success. It’s going to be such a great event. Other than myself there three great speakers scheduled. If you’re going to be in the Sacramento area September 19th, I invite you to attend. Information about the event will be posted soon.
Starting a company that is dedicated to providing the tools and resources Independent Authors and Musicians need to succeed is often overwhelming. I sometimes feel I cannot see the light at the end of the tunnel. However, I have my “why” and that is what allows me to stay focused and able to endure and conquer the obstacles I face. I know that I will succeed and I’m willing to work hard to ensure that success. Are you?
What is your “why”? What motivates you?
