Actionable Plan No. 1

Learning your current boundaries.

We all have constraints and openings. They will change or be persistent depending on our environment and how we respond to society and systems involved in that environment.

Your financials are the first step. Your income stream(s) will determine your flexibility. People often put their art in the center but I think that can backfire.  If you find that you are not making enough money then you need to work or some form of financial support. If you find that you are an excessive spender, see where you can cut back. Your financial well-being is a big deal and to put the “dream” before the bank account doesn’t make sense in the long run.

Your network can drive your energy levels in your art. Who do you know and who can you collaborate with now or in the next 3 months? Art didn’t happen in a vacuum. Start reaching out to people and seeing what they are willing to do.  The other side to networking is who your audiences are. When you produce performances the players want an audience and they also want to be compensated.  Many times, especially in the beginning these are the two largest barriers. Start coming up with a strategy to reach out to others and see what you can provide for your community.

Start taking inventory and you will be able to see your deficits and strongholds. This will guide you in what actions you need to be taking to develop your future as a performing artist.

Reviewing your financials and network is going to determine your first steps. These are things that will fluctuate so stay on top of them by checking every month to see where you stand.

-Medina