This time of year you may be thinking about how to make 2016 your best year ever. Perhaps you began making a list of your professional goals or you crafted a vision board filled with your dreams and aspirations. Congratulations! You’re on your way to creating a brighter future as a professional artist.
This article contains excerpts from “The Secret Formula of Successful Artists”
I’m sure you know that dreams and motivation alone do not bring your dreams to fruition. As a career coach for 30 years, I know that the artists who achieve their goals consistently have developed specific success-oriented attributes.
Of all the qualities many successful artists share, I have learned that commitment and discipline may be the most valuable traits of all. Many artists I know struggle to maintain these habits; however, they know they are necessary.
Creative achievers are those who combine motivation with a steadfast commitment to accomplish their objectives. They take the time required to develop their creative, career and financial plans. Then they rely on self-discipline to execute their plans with proactive weekly, daily and hourly activities.
When artists exercise commitment and discipline, they find it easier to face reality and are more adaptable to change. They realize the importance of making sacrifices, setting priorities, taking calculated risks and investing substantial amounts of time and effort to attain their goals. They strive to maximize their strengths rather than focus on their weaknesses. They take responsibility for their situation and don’t blame other people or events when things go awry.
As an example of an artist with commitment, I often refer to Chuck Close, world-renowned painter, who despite his learning disabilities, persevered and went on to college. Later as an established artist, he was struck with a sudden near-fatal illness. While others who are faced with physical challenges may give up on their goals, Chuck Close, who is paraplegic, was determined to sit in a wheelchair with a brush strapped to his wrist to paint his magnificent, large paintings.
We can also find inspiration in Goethe’s quote: “Until one is committed, there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back, always ineffectiveness. Concerning all acts of initiative, there is one elementary truth, the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: That the moment one definitely commits oneself, then providence moves too… Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it.”
As you fantasize about the big dreams and goals you hope to achieve in 2016, I suggest you integrate the habits of commitment and discipline. If you place them among your highest priorities, you’ll have a winning combination for success.
Renée Phillips, The Artrepreneur Coach, helps artists attain their highest potential in private consultations, coaching sessions and articles on Renee-Phillips.com. As founder/director of Manhattan Arts International, she promotes artists through curated art programs and exhibitions. As founder of The Healing Power of ART & ARTISTS she, and her editorial team, promote the many benefits of art for individuals and our society.
