Is the dream of becoming a musician so great that it keeps you up at night? And you’re not only wondering if it will ever happen for you but where you will find the time to make it happen?
Finding the right balance between your regular job and pursuing a passion in music can be demanding and feel like something near impossible.
And the fact is that many aspiring musicians struggle with time management, energy levels, and maintaining enthusiasm for their craft after a long day at work and most likely being alone in this journey.
That’s why in this blog post we have outlined the right strategies to not only juggle both but even thrive in both areas.
Time Management: The Key to Balancing Work and Music
Be honest with yourself and determine how you spend your time and your free time.The key to making this dream happen for you is by finding the sweet spot in balancing a job and a music career, and the best way to do this is through effective time management- there is no way around it, no matter how talented you are. Rachael Sage can back this argument all the way.
Here are some strategies to help you make the most of your time:
Create a Schedule:
The key is in the planning, and then the golden key is in executing that plan- it’s easy to set up a plan but following through is the difficult part. Best method for you would be to allocate specific times for work, practice, and most importantly rest. Just by using tools like calendars and planners to keep track of your commitments you can better hold yourself accountable to get your things done.
Prioritise Tasks:
Another way to get more important stuff done is to determine which tasks are most important and which tasks have to be nailed down according to a specific timeframe, and focus on completing priorities first.
Set Realistic Goals:
Break down your music goals into manageable and bitesize steps. For example, instead of aiming to write an entire album in a month, set a goal to write one song per week.
Maintaining Energy and Focus
If you want to juggle this double life for the first bit you know you have to focus on your energy and health- this will help you stay focussed for longer. Here are some effective tips to help maintain your energy and focus:
Healthy Lifestyle:
Remember these three things you need to maintain a healthy lifestyle; focus on diet, get regular exercise in, and get enough sleep. These habits will boost your energy levels and improve your overall well-being and it does wonders for your motivation.
Stay Hydrated and walk:
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your energy levels up. When you walk, you create a pathway for your brain to sometimes switch off from worries and things that overwhelm you, and then you can easily solve problems.
Balancing the First Shift and Music Pursuits
Many musicians work the first shift, starting their day early and finishing in the afternoon. This shift can be advantageous for balancing work and music for several reasons:
Afternoon Practice Sessions
Finishing work early gives you the afternoon and evening to dedicate to music. Use this time for practice, songwriting, or recording.
Flexible Schedule:
The first shift often provides a more structured schedule, making it easier to plan your music activities around your job.
Case Studies: Success Stories of Musicians Balancing Jobs
Hearing about others’ successes can be incredibly motivating- and also humbling because their journey is quite similar to yours.
Jack Johnson:
Before becoming a full-time musician, Jack Johnson worked as a teacher. He balanced his job with his passion for music, eventually transitioning to a successful music career- your why should be as big as your dream.
St. Vincent (Annie Clark):
St. Vincent worked various jobs, including a stint at a bakery, while pursuing her music career. Her dedication paid off, and she is now a well-known artist.
Jewel:
Jewel worked multiple jobs, including waitressing, while performing at local coffee shops and open mics. Just goes to show that you should try everything you possibly can to make this work.
Strategies for Overcoming Challenges
Balancing a job and a music career is not without its challenges- you probably know and have experienced this by now.
Here are some common obstacles and how to overcome them:
Time Constraints:
If you find it challenging to find time for music, try waking up an hour earlier or utilising your lunch break for practice or writing- keep the goal at the forefront of your mind constantly.
Burnout:
To avoid burnout, ensure you have regular rest days and engage in activities that help you relax and unwind.
Lack of Motivation:
Surround yourself with supportive friends and family who encourage your musical pursuits and believe in your journey. Joining a local music group or online community can also provide a different level of comfort.
Leveraging Technology for Music Creation
Technology can be a valuable ally in balancing work and music. Here are some ways to use technology to your advantage:
Digital Tools:
Utilise digital tools like music production software, virtual instruments, and mobile apps to create and record music whenever you have free time.
Social Media:
Share your music and connect with other musicians through social media platforms- we live in a time where this is easier than ever before. Building an online presence can help you reach a wider audience and find your tribe.
AI Technology:
Artists like Wolfgang Hildebrandt make use of AI technology to create music videos, this goes to show that we live in a time with so many resources that can help thriving and upcoming talents.
Networking and Collaborating
One of the sure ways to create opportunities for yourself is by Networking and collaborating with other musicians- and it will give you inspiration beyond measure when you work with the right people.
Attend Events:
Attend local music events, open mics, and workshops to meet other musicians and industry professionals and also give yourself the opportunity to get your name out there among their followers.
Join Communities:
Become a member of online forums and social media groups dedicated to musicians. These communities can provide support, advice, and potential collaboration opportunities.
Financial Planning for Musicians
When you juggle between your job and your music pursuits it definitely involves financial considerations. So you should do proper financial planning, this will help you manage your finances and invest in your music career wisely.
Budgeting:
You should always consider a budget that accounts for your income and expenses- know where the cash goes. Allocate funds for music-related expenses, such as equipment, studio time, and marketing- it’s tough in the beginning but once the ball gets rolling you’ll find the flow.
Savings:
Having a financial cushion can provide security and enable you to take risks when opportunities arise in your music career.
Income Streams:
Explore multiple income streams related to your music, such as teaching lessons, performing at gigs, or selling merchandise. Diversifying your income can provide stability and support your music pursuits.
Conclusion
Balancing a job while pursuing a passion in music is challenging and most artists will tell you that it still is achievable when you follow the right strategies and mindset. So from managing your time effectively, to leveraging technology, and most importantly building a supportive network, you can successfully juggle both your job and your music career until you only need to focus solely on your music career. And just remind yourself of this, many successful musicians started in the same position and achieved their dreams through perseverance and dedication. So, keep pushing forward, stay motivated, and embrace this journey- it will ultimately turn you into a better artist.
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