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CAREER ADVICE: This the best I've got for those who want a career in the arts. First, if you want it enough and put in the work, it'll happen eventually. And by putting in the work, I mean every free minute of every day. It's hard and it'll take a toll, but it's important.
And by taking a toll, I mean it REALLY takes a toll. Social life and relationships will be tested HARD. That said, don't use it as an excuse to be a crappy friend, relative and/or partner. Be conscious of those people because they'll still be around when your career takes off.
Second, find a way to stand out and market that. The old marketing rule of thumb is that you need to at least be the first, the best, or completely different from what's in your field. Constantly examine how you can do that, even once you're established.
Third, treat it like a business. Because it is. This applies to when you're trying to break in and when you're up and going. Protect your intellectual properties, have a professional do your taxes, get business accounts, incorporate, etc. All of that stuff.
This not only protects you, but also will make sure you're taken seriously by your clients. If you want to be taken as a professional, present yourself as one. It's the same as the old adage of dressing for the job you want, or living the lifestyle you want.
Fourth, never stop growing as an artist nor as a business owner. The second you're established everyone else is going to examine how they can unseat you. It's that cut-throat. The moment you sign a client begins the clock of when you'll lose them. Be prepared.
Continuing to grow as an artist will keep you from getting stale and passe, thus keeping your sales up. Continuing to grow as a business prepares you to handle any changes you'll be presented with.
Fifth, all of that said do everything you can to help those following you. They need your mentorship to navigate these waters. Selfishly, some day they'll be there to return the favor. Most importantly, you're a good person who will make the world even better through them.
Finally, the second you don't enjoy what you're doing, change it all up. Make the art for yourself and let the money be a byproduct. If it's your truth, that will speak to the audience more than anything else.
