Some musicians I know believe in the concept of the starving artist. They seem to think that the more they starve for their art the more successful they’ll become.

Personally, I couldn’t think of anything more destructive to my creativity than being a starving artist. Although, that wasn’t always the case.

In the past, I looked at day jobs as evil things that got in the way of my songwriting. However, by not having a job, it gave me the time that I wanted but not the money needed to utilise my spare time wisely and efficiently.

It takes a lot of effort worrying how you’re going to pay the rent or where your next meal is coming from. I endured this agony for a couple of years.

That experience taught me that having a day job which supports your songwriting is the best way to go.

After a number of attempts doing odd jobs here and there I now run my own business Orangutang Music.

For me, having a day gig has so many benefits:

1. I have a regular income coming in.

2. With this regular income comes less stress caused by financial worry.

3. New job = new environment, new people, new skills to be learnt, new experiences and new opportunities to harvest song ideas.

4. A new appreciation for the time that I do devote to my songwriting process.

Don’t become a ‘job snob’ like I have had been in the past and spend precious songwriting time chasing the dollar and putting yourself under financial pressure.

Being a full time musician is a wonderful thing but if you are going backwards financially because of it then, you got to ask yourself, “Is it really worth it?”

Taking a day job does not mean that you should believe in your abilities any less.

If you can manage doing your music full-time then go for it however, if you are not at that stage yet you have some serious things to think about.

Letting your creativity flourish in a financially stress free environment should be the highest priority.

Until next time, happy writing,

Written by Corey Stewart
Singer/Songwriter/Musician

Article Source:
http://songwritingzen.wordpress.com

For more education on careers in the music industry, check out: www.Music-Career-Guide.com

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