There’s no one sure-fire way to make it. It takes hard work, dedication and patience, and a good foundation.
Be sure to read Part I, Part II and Part III before continuing on.
Step 4:
Don’t be so stuck on your “dream” that you miss your purpose.
In high school, I wanted to be the next Rodney Jerkins: producing music, signing talent, and stunting at the Grammys. My reasons for wanting that life were based on good intentions: music had helped me through my darkest days, and I wanted to do the same for others. However, my motivation was purely material: I wanted the cars and the money and the girls.
What I didn’t know back then is that:
- I have no patience for chasing or babysitting elusive artists,
- The politics of record placements is mentally draining, and
- If I had stuck to that original “dream”, I’d be disillusioned whether it had happened or not.
All the money in the world won’t matter if you’re unhappy.
I fell in love with the business side of the industry when I went to college, and discovered one of my purposes: to help others avoid the pitfalls of the record industry. I also realized that I could sustain a living with the business side while continuing to pursue the creative side on my terms.
I proceeded forward with this revelation, and I’m happier because of it.
Moral Of The Story
Discovering your purpose is more fulfilling than any dream you could have. What we originally set out to do in our careers may not be what we’re actually meant to do.
You may be a decent rapper with brilliant marketing skills that could best serve others. You may be a great singer with really bad stage fright that could thrive at demo singing. You may be average at audio engineering but amazing at managing sessions and calendars.
Take a step back and evaluate your dreams. If your intentions are pure, you’d do it for free. If your reasons are materialistic, it’ll never be enough.
