The Journey

Good morning to one and all. It's Thursday and that means it's journey day.

Last Thursday I discussed how some people are born knowing that they're a writer or dancer or musician, whereas other artists come to it later in life.

Either way the urge to communicate asserts itself and, let's face it, that's the most important thing.

Once you know how you want to communicate, you're more than halfway there.

But what do you do with all that talent?

Somehow you know you've got it. You can feel it in your soul.

It's your talent that keeps you up at night thinking, creating, dreaming about your craft.

During the day you daydream about your ideas, have sudden inspirations and have a constant dialogue with yourself reviewing your past work and your future ideas.

Well, all that is normal of course and part of being creative and innovative, but you must translate your talent into a form other people can experience too. Keeping it all in your head won't get you where you want to go.

It's scary to step out into the world of critics and peers. You have to put your heart out there for everyone and anyone else to see.

Here are a few things you should always keep in mind, whether you're just getting starting or a seasoned artist:

• Never give up! (I know this sounds obvious, but I've heard and read so many times that many artists simply give up too quickly.)
• Stay true to yourself! (Make sure you work on projects that don't compromise your principles--whatever they may be.)
• Work very hard! (There's a myth that artists live exciting, carefree lives, well that's simply not true. It can be exciting but we work very hard and that is the key to success.)
• Be your own cheering section! (Always believe in yourself and stand up for yourself too. Only you know if you are improving and maturing--don't fall into the trap of hollow praise.)
• Learn to sell your work! (You may or may not be good at business, but you must be able to sell yourself. That doesn't mean compromise your integrity, but it does mean being persistent and innovative about how you present your work. You'll spend 30 to 50% of your time selling.)

I hope these tips help you throughout your career.

Becoming a successful artist in any genre is filled with important life lessons.

Translating your talent into the culture of your age is integral to keeping the world a vibrant and healthy planet.

Communication is the key to human interaction and community.

Everyone has the right to believe and to turn their talents outwards.

Remember, the more risks you take the luckier you become!