Today, I want to discuss something a little different. I want to talk about success and share what I consider the secret to achieving it. Success is a deeply personal concept; people often associate it with financial wealth and material possessions. But let’s challenge that notion and explore what it truly means to be successful as an artist.
When you embark on your artistic journey, measuring your success solely by monetary gains is easy. You might think that selling thousands of dollars worth of artwork at your first show is the benchmark for success. But I want to introduce a different perspective. Success should be defined by you, not by societal standards or the opinions of naysayers. It’s crucial to identify what success means to you personally.
So, let’s delve into the secret to success. I’m going to break it down into three simple steps. Grab a pen and paper if you can and jot them down.
Step 1: Know where you are. Take a deep introspective look at yourself. Evaluate your current situation, habits, and the internal dialogue hindering your artistic pursuits. Challenge the beliefs you hold about success and identify any obstacles that are holding you back. This self-awareness is vital to your journey.
Step 2: Know where you want to go. This step can be tricky because many of us adopt preconceived notions of what success should look like. We often equate success with a specific monetary goal, such as becoming a millionaire. But it’s essential to redefine success for yourself. Consider your starting point and set achievable, mini-goals that align with your aspirations. Success doesn’t have to be solely tied to money; it can be as simple as consistently showcasing your artwork.
When I began my art career, my goals were modest. I focused on displaying my art regularly, not fixating on the financial aspect. Money can serve as a measurement, but it shouldn’t be your primary motivator. It’s more important to set goals centered around the actions you take. For example, my initial goal was to show my artwork consistently, which led me to participate in flea markets. So, remember to redefine success and set goals that truly resonate with your artistic journey.
Step 3: Get started. This step is often where many people stumble. They talk themselves out of pursuing their dreams or let self-doubt consume them. But remember, if you find yourself hesitant or making excuses, it’s likely a habit that needs to be broken. Taking action is crucial. Just get started, even if it’s with small steps. Trust me, this is where the magic begins.
Imagine you’re at home and want to go somewhere. You need to know your starting point and your destination to chart a course. Similarly, knowing where you are and where you want to be in your artistic journey will guide your actions. Don’t let indecisiveness or uncertainty hold you back. Take that first step and keep moving forward.
It’s important to note that success is not a one-time achievement. It’s an ongoing process. Regularly evaluate yourself, your habits, and your progress. Adjust your goals along the way and stay committed to personal growth.
Remember, you create your own economy. Take ownership of your artistic endeavors. Don’t rely solely on external factors or blame others for your lack of success. Embrace your creativity and find innovative ways to promote your art without depending on paid advertisements. Challenge yourself to think outside the box and promote your work in unique, rogue ways.
So, to sum it up: know where you are, know where you want to go, and just get started.
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