Heather Statham

Hey there, all you aspiring performers, creative souls, and future Rockstars! 🌟

Have you ever found yourself worrying about the inevitable non-artsy J.O.B. that might come your way? Well, grab a glass of Sweet Tea (I am Southern, after all), come have a sit on the porch with me, and let’s chat!

I remember stumbling upon a blog that digs into the anxieties fresh-out-of-school musicians face when considering non-performing jobs. This got me thinking about similar concerns my own students have shared, my own experience and some wise words from many mentors and teachers along the way, so I thought I'd throw in my two cents.

Let’s get real – dreams are fantastic, but those pesky bills won’t pay themselves! Whether you're into writing, singing, acting, or any other creative pursuit, and like one of my mentors said to me for years “You’ve got to be equipped to make a living.”  Think of it this way: do what it takes now to secure your dreams later.

You may be a singer with dreams of hitting it big in the music industry. 
Or an actor who longs for the bright lights of Broadway! 

Or a musician who dreams of being on the stage at Red Rocks

Or someone who dreams about doing them all!!

Fantastic! Great! AWESOME!!! Go Get those dreams!

But… building a successful artistic career takes time. 

So, how do you navigate this journey without feeling like you're constantly on the brink of financial doom? 

OR that you’re somehow not following your true path as a creative?

Be Equipped to Make a Living Now

Let's face it – dreams are incredible, but they don't always come with a massive paycheck…YET! Pursuing your passion is important, but so is keeping the lights on and food on the table. Balancing your artistic ambitions with practical needs is a skill every creative needs to master.

Imagine you're laying the groundwork for a magnificent castle. (Hello, Cinderella's Castle!!)  Right now, you're in the phase of digging trenches and setting up the foundation. It might not look glamorous, but it's absolutely essential for the grand structure you're planning to build. In the same way, taking on a side gig or a non-creative job is just a temporary detour to set the stage for something bigger.

While pursuing your passion, there might be times when you need a side gig to pay the bills. This doesn't mean giving up on your dreams; it's a temporary detour to ensure your basic needs are met. Having a steady income can relieve a lot of stress, allowing you to focus more on your art rather than worrying about where your next meal will come from. Think of this phase as laying the foundation for your future success.

Embrace this step with positivity, knowing it's a crucial part of your journey. Instead of viewing a job as a sacrifice, see it as an investment in your dreams. The skills you gain, the people you meet, and the experiences you have will all contribute to your artistic journey. You are building a stable base that will support your creative endeavors. So, take on that job with pride, knowing it's fueling your path to artistic fulfillment.

Align with Purpose

Remember, every job, no matter how unrelated to your passion, can teach you something valuable. From customer service skills to time management, these experiences build your resilience and work ethic. It's not about constantly hustling; it's about aligning your actions with your long-term goals. Each job and experience can be a stepping stone that brings you closer to your artistic dreams.

Approach every job with an open mind and a positive attitude. Each experience adds to your toolkit, making you a more well-rounded and resourceful artist. Purposeful alignment means leveraging every opportunity to grow and improve while keeping your ultimate goals in sight. It's about building a mosaic of skills and experiences that will enrich your artistic career in the long run.

Use this time to network, build skills, and stay open to artistic opportunities that come your way. By focusing on purposeful alignment, you can ensure that every step you take is meaningful and contributes to your journey as an artist.

Play the Long Game

Building an artistic career is like running a marathon, not a sprint. It requires patience, endurance, and a strategic approach. A true, longstanding career in the arts rarely happens overnight. One of the best strategies is to have a parallel career that brings in a steady income while you hone your craft. This could be a part-time job, freelancing, or even starting your own business. Think of it as a supportive companion to your artistic journey, not a fallback.

Having a parallel career allows you to invest in your art without the constant pressure of financial instability. It gives you the freedom to take creative risks and explore opportunities without the looming worry of making ends meet. It's all about balancing your immediate needs with your long-term dreams. By playing the long game, you're setting yourself up for sustainable success.

Your parallel career can also provide you with valuable skills and experiences that will benefit your artistic pursuits. Whether it's learning about marketing through a freelance gig or gaining organizational skills from a part-time job, these experiences enrich your journey. Embrace this dual path as a unique and empowering aspect of your artistic life, focusing on building a career, not just finding fame.

Embrace the Journey

Yes, it takes time. Yes, there will be highs and lows. But having a parallel career gives you the breathing space to focus on your artistic brand without the constant worry about finances. Embrace the journey, stay focused on your goals, and align your efforts with purpose. Remember, every small step forward is progress.

Celebrate your wins, learn from your losses, and keep your eyes on the prize. The journey itself can be incredibly enriching and full of learning experiences. Each challenge you face and overcome builds your character and resilience. Embracing the journey means appreciating the process and understanding that each stage is a valuable part of your growth as an artist.

Your path might not be straightforward, but it's uniquely yours. The skills, connections, and experiences you gain along the way will shape your artistic identity. So, take a deep breath, trust the process, and enjoy the ride. After all, every great story has its twists and turns, and your artistic journey is no different.

Seek Guidance

Embarking on your artistic journey can be a thrilling yet challenging adventure, and you don't have to navigate it alone. Consider partnering with a career or creative coach who understands the unique twists and turns of a performer’s path. A coach can be your sounding board, helping you identify your strengths, craft a personalized roadmap, and provide the encouragement and accountability you need to stay on course.

Having a coach in your corner can truly elevate your journey. They offer fresh perspectives, highlight opportunities you might not see, and connect you with valuable resources and networks. It's about having the right support to help you shine and thrive in your creative pursuits.

And here's something exciting! 

I’m thrilled to introduce my new Rockstar Guide Drop-In Session! Think of me as your Creative Guidance Counselor!  

Whether you’re a parent supporting your child’s artistic dreams or an aspiring artist seeking direction, this session is designed just for you. We’ll dive into finding the perfect classes, preparing for auditions, navigating the industry, and uncovering performance opportunities. Let’s make your journey as smooth and successful as possible!

Conclusion

So, fearless dreamers, embrace the non-performing job as a vital part of your journey! It’s not a setback; it’s a strategic step towards building a solid foundation for your future. With a little foresight, dedication, and the right attitude, you’re well on your way to achieving your dreams! Every job, every gig, and every step you take is a crucial chapter in your unique story. Cherish each moment, learn from every experience, and let them fuel your path to greatness. The road might have its twists and turns, but it's also filled with opportunities for growth and discovery. 

Keep your spirit high, your goals clear, and continue to rock on!🎸✨

Now Go Be Awesome!!