Step 1: Define Success for Yourself
Decide what “success” in music means to you. This helps you track your progress.
Examples:
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Finishing a track
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Getting a song signed
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Making a living from music
Step 2: Know Your Why
Be honest, ask yourself why you want success in music.
Just make sure it’s real and that you actually enjoy making music. Making music to “get rich” typically doesn’t work out too well.
Step 3: Set a Goal
Choose one or more goals that match your version of success.
Make them big enough to challenge you, but still believable.
Examples:
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Finish your first track
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Complete an EP or album
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Work with a dream artist or label
Tip: You can read your main goal every morning as a reminder and motivator.
Step 4: Get Real About Your Skills
List the things you need to improve to hit your goal.
Examples:
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Music theory
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Mixing
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Song Arrangments
Step 5: Schedule Your Time
Commit to a set number of hours per week to produce music and learn new skills.
Step 6: Find the Right People
Try to connect with people who are farther along than you are in the areas you need help with. Mentors can save you years of struggling.
Unless you are paying them to teach you, try not to be a leech; hopefully, you can offer something in return for their time and knowledge. Even if it’s a coffee or lunch. Communication is key, so everyone involved is on the same page and no one feels like they are being used.
Step 7: Keep It Visible
Keep it near your workspace as a reminder of your commitment.
