How to Never Worry About Making Money With Your Music Again
by Draven Grey
Come to think of it, I could be rich!
At the time of this writing, I do a lot of side jobs recording, composing, playing on albums across the world, and other music related ventures. I even have music licensed to Film, TV, and games, along with songs on several radio stations. I also have a very solid history in music, from playing in front of thousands of people, to several music performance jobs that kept me going for years.
It sounds like I’m bragging, but none of those things are as big as they sound. Sure, I made some wrong choices along the way that held me back. But after thinking a long time about it, I realized the real reason behind my choices had nothing to do with being wrong, but rather about what I really wanted out of life. Like I said, I could be rich.
“Could be” is the key phrase
Do I make a lot of money? No, not at the moment. I’m taking it slow, and building each of these up as I’m comfortable giving up my time. There have been many times that I chose to go without a paycheck, sometimes upwards of 2 years, in order to do what I love. I could be making over $10K a month right now, and it drives one of my coaches nuts that I choose not to. I would rather take it easy, spend time with my family, and spend more time on personal growth as well as mastering my skills and businesses. I’m very happy. In fact, I love my life right now. When I want more money, I find a way to make it. I have several music-related things set up that can bring in more money when I want them to. It takes a few months build it up, since I’m perpetually and purposefully running low-key most of the time. But, money is there when needed.
One of my investment mentors is the same way. He’s making about $30,000 a month right now, but many of his protege’s are making well over $100,000 a month. I know these people personally. Again, it’s up to you.
Money is created, not “made”
If you stress about money, find ways to bring in some. Create multiple ways you can bring in money when needed. Remember “Plan B.” I’m not talking about a “fall back plan.” What I’m talking about is a “backup plan” – a plan that supports and “backs up” your “Plan A” and just as strongly supports your music career goals.
My businesses supports my career as a performing musician. I’m taking it really slow right now (though increasing in speed). I want to make sure that I’m doing each thing with mastery, and forming my businesses to suit my personal desires. I also want to make sure that what I offer is from the heart, and not out of the pursuit of money. I would much rather be led by my heart than be a slave to money.
Money is not really an issue for you, and should never be. When you’re doing what you love, money becomes a tool that you own and use when and how you need it. And when you start to desire those fancy, expensive things, there will always be a way to create the money. What creates stress is when we start wanting instant gratification. What creates stress is when you become a tool that your money owns and uses.
So what does this mean for you?
Find the level of living that you’re comfortable with, then create several sources of potential income that can support that level and can give you extra luxuries when you decide to bring in more money (not when the money decides for you). Become a part of the Tom Hess Elite Guitar Teachers Inner Circle; read books like Rich Dad, Poor Dad, The Richest Man in Baylon, or Think and Grow Rich. I think you will be amazed with all the other areas and business ideas that you can apply the principles you learn. You’re not stuck with one income source (a band, your own music, a job, a business, teaching, etc…). You don’t need to be dependent on any one thing to take care of you or support your dreams of being a Rock Star. And most of all, you control the money, not the other way around. You decide how it comes to you, out of millions of options; You decide where you want your focus to be - where you’re headed; You decide if you’re willing to sacrifice time to build up the things that will free you up later; You decide what things you master; You decide - not a boss, not money, not circumstance, not the outside world. You decide who you become and what tools you want to support you on that journey.
Who do you want to become?
On the ridged and often dangerous path to “making it” in the music industry, Draven Grey and Rockstar Mindset have been described as a friend, guide, and schoolmaster. For years, they have challenged artists to dream big and take precise action. For more information about the resources, courses, and services they provide to challenge you into becoming the rock star you want to be, visit http://www.rockstarmindset.com.
©2008 Rockstar Mindset LLC
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Draven, I can find myself so much in your words in this article.
You just described me and it’s great to know there are other people around just like moi!