Hey Lykkers! Let's talk about something crucial—defining your own success in music. We all know that success is not a one-size-fits-all concept. Each one of us starts in different situations, with varying skills and opportunities.

As musicians, it's vital to carve out our own path rather than compare our journey to others. This journey should be about finding your unique definition of success.

So, let's dig in and figure out how you can set your own standards for success in the music world!

Question 1: What Makes You Lose Track of Time?

Let's kick things off with a reflection exercise. Think about the moments when you get so immersed in your work that you forget about time. What are you doing during those moments?

For me, it's when I'm writing and recording music. I could spend hours in the studio and not even notice it. This "flow state" is key—it's when we're doing what we love. Understanding where you lose track of time will give you insight into the type of musician you want to be. Do you love composing, recording, or maybe performing live? That's the first step in defining your musical journey.

Question 2: If Money Was No Object, What Would You Do?

Imagine this: One of your super fans comes up to you and offers to pay you an annual salary to work on music full-time. No financial worries, no distractions. If money were no concern, what would you spend your days doing?

Would you write more songs, perform live shows, or focus on building your brand? The answer to this question is essential. It tells you what truly drives you. What kind of musician would you be if financial pressure was gone? This is where your definition of success starts to come together.

Turning Your Passion into Income

Once you've figured out what kind of musician you want to be, it's time to turn that vision into a source of income. Whether you're a composer, performer, or music producer, there are ways to monetize your craft. The key is to diversify your income sources.

Think about this—having at least three streams of income is a common trait among financially successful people. Studies show that millionaires often have three income streams before reaching their first million. You don't need to become a millionaire to be financially stable in music, but focusing on multiple revenue channels will ensure that your financial situation remains secure. It might seem challenging at first, but it's definitely doable.

Focus on Three Income Streams

Now, let's break it down further. Instead of spreading yourself too thin, focus on three solid income streams. Maybe you're a singer-songwriter, a producer, and a live performer. Each of these areas offers different opportunities for generating income. For example:

• Singer-songwriter/Composer: You can license your music to TV shows, write songs for other artists, or even compose music for films.

• Music Producer: Consider producing music for other artists, offering your production services online, or selling your beats on platforms.

• Live Performer: Play at local venues, go on tour, or even take on corporate gigs like weddings or private parties.

The idea is to zero in on these three avenues and dedicate your time and energy to them. The more focused you are, the easier it will be to generate consistent income from your music.

Start Small: Baby Steps Lead to Big Progress

Now that you have your three income streams, it's time to take action. And here's where the power of baby steps comes into play. Think about the tasks you can complete every day to move forward. Whether it's writing a song for 15 minutes, recording a beat, or reaching out to venues for gigs, every small step counts. It's about building momentum.

Just like in the movie What About Bob?, where the character Bob learns that taking small steps helps him overcome his fears and challenges, we can apply this principle to our music careers. Start small, and gradually, these baby steps will lead you toward your big picture success.

Make Daily Progress

You don't need to have hours each day to work on your music. Even if you have just 15 minutes, use it wisely. Focus on tasks that will lead to tangible progress. It could be composing, networking, or marketing your music. The goal is to ensure that you're making progress every day, no matter how small the step. Eventually, these daily efforts will accumulate into something bigger—leading you to a full-time career in music.

The Chain of Progress

As you continue to work toward your musical dreams, keep in mind that every day is another link in the chain. Consistency is key. By focusing on your three income streams and committing to your daily tasks, you'll build a solid foundation for your career. The more you stay focused on your big picture and take those baby steps, the closer you'll get to realizing your version of success in music.

Lykkers, remember, this journey is unique to each of us. Stay true to your path, and don't forget to enjoy the ride! Keep pushing forward, and success will follow.