As someone who has been working in the entertainment industry for nearly 30 years, one thing I have learned with zero exceptions is that a lot of people who consider themselves to be artists are really hobbyists.
According to Merriam-Webster’s dictionary, a hobby is “a pursuit outside one’s regular occupation engaged in especially for relaxation.” I hope the word “relaxation” stands out to you, because that’s the reason a great deal of talented people never succeed in the pursuit of their dreams.
They either think the journey should be comfortable or prioritize non-productive things that allow them to relax over doing the work required to win.
While I understand how tempting it is to be distracted, one really has to question one’s level of commitment to one’s craft. What separates the artist from the hobbyist is that their chosen talent isn’t just something they do, it’s a part of who they are.
It really isn’t a choice.
They live it. They couldn’t imagine doing something else and would never willingly let anyone or anything get in their way. They understand that everything they choose should complement their goals. The game is hard enough by itself, so why would they make it more difficult?
The harsh reality is that a lot of so-called artists are looking to fill the vacant spaces in their lives. We have all seen it. He and she seem so focused and committed until someone or something else comes along and makes them feel whole.
Now, they’re no longer actively or consistently promoting their music, performing their songs, or doing any of the things that garnered our attention or support in the first place. Even worse, they start prioritizing people who constantly make them feel like they have to choose. Yet, they have the audacity to wonder why no one wants to invest in them.
The answer is simple. They’re not prioritizing or investing in themselves!
If you would rather sacrifice your goals, dreams, and ambitions to make someone else comfortable, then go ahead and do that and be happy. But those are not the decisions that real artists make, and definitely not the successful ones.
You’re a hobbyist, and there’s nothing wrong with that. Just stop trying to convince us you’re someone we should take seriously when you are unserious about your craft.
Be’n Original
PS: Here’s a short list of ARTISTS I think you should follow and support:
Dakari Eli @dakarieli
Rian Wyld @rianwyld
Levina Lye @levinalye
Ayanna Irish @ayannairishofficial
Jaszy Shavers @jaszyshavers
JayMillyRock @jaymillyrock
