I know quite a few artists.
Musicians. Dancers. Writers. Painters. Creative types.
In the broader sense of art that Seth Godin uses I know far
more artists. People making a big difference in the world by pouring themselves
wholeheartedly into what they do. Creating art.
Some artists suffer from pain (ranging from clinical, sensitivity,
to heartbreak) and practice their art as a release. It brings them respite, joy
and gives meaning to their world.
Some artists are struggling through the hard work of both
mastering their craft and finding enough people who appreciate it.
I don’t think that it is suffering as much as it is being
willing to sacrifice some things now for later potential gains.
It is a choice you willingly make. This choice applies to
anything you want to do to your full potential.
Some artists believe you have to suffer to practice your
art. They do it because they must; they are
compelled. They bask in the suffering. Victimhood. I did not sell out, I am a
real artist.
Why?
Why would you choose to make your life about suffering? Do
you believe you have no free will? No right to joy? If your art brings you no
joy, why do you do it?
I don’t personally know any artists like that. I avoid
people who “want” to suffer.
Every artist I choose to be around (even those currently suffering)
has the internal hope that things will be better in the future. That they will
make a difference. That people will appreciate their art.
The choice is not constrained to “be financially successful OR be an
artist”. YOU chose to put the OR in there.
Check your premise.
You can be an artist AND be successful.
Success can include financial rewards as well as all the aspects of success you define. It is your success.
AND you can enjoy the journey to success.
No suffering is required. Your choice.
Bonus: The Secret to an Artist’s Success
If you don’t want your art to remain a personal hobby, read
The Go-Giver by Bob Burg and John David Mann. You must follow the Five Laws just
like everyone else.
Your art doesn’t demand it.
You should.
