rich in personality

There’s a fine line between doing what you love… doing what you’re good at… and paying the bills. The ”happiest” and most “successful” among us have found this elusive balance. It’s goal toward which we all should strive. Of course, it’s way easier said than done.

In a recent newsletter, Michael Laskow, the founder of TAXI (a great company helping unsigned bands and musicians make money with their music) had this to say to his independent-musician subscribers:

“Do you want to make money making music, or are the journey and the validation you feel enough to slake your thirst?”

“What IS Indie? Cooler sounding than ‘unsigned,’ or a commitment to a life of starving artist excuses? Making money, enjoying the journey and feeling validated aren’t mutually exclusive. You can be something more than a starving artist if you’re not already.”

“I hope I find you at the intersection of Money Street and Validation Avenue.”

There’s something romantic and attractive about starving artists and struggling entreprenuers who are rich in personality but low on dough. The twisted allure of this lifestyle comes from enduring being revered and rejected at the same time. For those in this category, “success” really comes down to contenment during the journey. If you have it, money becomes a by-product of the pursuit. 

So here’s the challenge whether you’re a musician, a model, or a mechanic… 1) Make sure your passion is also your true talent. 2) Be realistic about your situation - are your endeavors merely a hobby or supposed to be making your house payment? 3) Be honest about #1 and #2. 4) Be honest about #1 and #2 and #3.

©2008 Tom Leu