Rule 4: Grit

Grit is a quality that refers to an individual’s perseverance and determination in the face of challenges and setbacks.

In the music industry, having grit means having the tenacity and resilience to pursue your musical goals, even when faced with obstacles and setbacks. The music industry can be incredibly competitive, and there are many factors that can impact a musician’s success, such as changing trends, the popularity of other artists, and the demands of the market. To succeed in this industry, you need to have grit — the ability to stay focused on your goals, work hard, and continue to grow and evolve as an artist, even in the face of adversity.

Having grit also means having the courage to pursue your artistic vision, even when it may not be the most popular or commercially viable path. It means being willing to take risks, experiment with new sounds and styles, and push the boundaries of what is possible in your music. As a songwriter or musician, starting a new project is always an exciting time. You may have a blank sheet of paper and a pen in hand, ready to jot down lyrics or a melody. You might be sitting in front of your keyboard or guitar, eager to create something new and beautiful.

However, without the combination of passion and perseverance, known as grit, even the most talented musicians can struggle to see their projects through to completion. The creative process can be challenging, and life’s ups and downs can make it difficult to stay focused on your goal. But the difference between successful songwriters and musicians and those who fall by the wayside is often grit.

Those who have it are able to push through the tough times and keep working towards their long-term vision, despite the obstacles they face. Grit is what helps you pick yourself up after a creative block, weather personal struggles, or handle rejection in the industry. It’s the drive that keeps you motivated and focused on your passion, even when things get tough.

Jimi Hendrix’s Grit Is worth noting

One example of a musician with grit is Jimi Hendrix. Hendrix grew up in a poor family in Seattle and was raised primarily by his father and grandmother. Despite facing poverty and a lack of support for his musical aspirations, he taught himself how to play the guitar and formed his first band at the age of 15.

Hendrix worked as a session musician for several years and played backup for artists like Little Richard and the Isley Brothers. He eventually moved to London where he formed the Jimi Hendrix Experience and released several groundbreaking albums that redefined the limits of what was possible with the electric guitar.

Despite his rapid rise to fame, Hendrix continued to face obstacles in his personal life, including drug addiction and a tumultuous love life. Despite these challenges, he remained dedicated to his craft and continued to produce innovative and influential music until his untimely death in 1970 at the age of 27. Jimi Hendrix’s story is a testament to the power of determination and hard work in overcoming adversity and achieving success in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.

Grit is a valuable trait that can help you achieve your goals and overcome obstacles in life. Having grit involves having the discipline to stay focused on one’s goals and the determination to overcome obstacles and distractions. Saying ‘No’ is a crucial part of this as it helps individuals prioritize their time and energy towards what is truly important to them.

By declining distractions and temptations, they can maintain their focus and progress towards their long-term objectives. This may involve saying ‘No’ to friends, family, and opportunities, but ultimately it is a necessary step to reach success. Saying ‘No’ more than ‘Yes’ allows individuals to stay on track and remain committed to their passions and goals.

Here are a few reasons why you should strive to develop grit:

• Success: People with grit tend to be more successful in their personal and professional lives. They are able to persist in the face of failure and continue working towards their goals even when things get tough.
• Resilience: Grit helps you bounce back from setbacks and overcome challenges. When you have grit, you are less likely to be discouraged by setbacks and more likely to find creative solutions to problems.
• Growth: Developing grit allows you to grow as a person. When you are able to persevere through difficult circumstances, you become stronger and more resilient.
• Satisfaction: Accomplishing your goals and seeing your hard work pay off can be incredibly satisfying. With grit, you are able to pursue your passions and achieve your dreams, which can lead to a more fulfilling life.
• Legacy: When you have grit, you leave a lasting legacy. Your persistence and determination inspire others and serve as a model for future generations.

WHY YOU NEED TO PERSEVERE?

Perseverance is a crucial ingredient for success in any career, including music. A music career can be challenging, with a highly competitive industry, rejections, and various obstacles that can block progress and growth. However, with persistence and determination, a musician can overcome these obstacles and eventually achieve success. Here are some ways perseverance plays a role in a successful music career:

• Overcoming Rejections: A musician must be prepared to face multiple rejections before they can make it big. Whether it’s not getting chosen for an audition, failing to secure a record deal, or receiving negative feedback, the ability to keep pushing through despite the setbacks is essential.
• Improving Craft: A musician must continuously strive to improve their craft and skills. Perseverance is necessary in developing their musical abilities and reaching their full potential. This can involve dedicating time and effort to regular practice, taking lessons, and seeking feedback from industry professionals.
• Building a Fan base: Building a fan base takes time, effort, and perseverance. A musician must be persistent in their efforts to connect with fans and promote their music. This can include playing live shows, engaging with fans on social media, and collaborating with other musicians.
• Networking: Networking is a crucial aspect of a successful music career. Musicians must persistently seek out opportunities to connect with industry professionals, other musicians, and fans. This can include attending industry events, reaching out to music industry contacts, and collaborating with other artists.
• Staying Focused: A successful music career requires the ability to stay focused and maintain the drive to reach goals. Perseverance helps musicians stay motivated and keep pushing forward, even when faced with setbacks or obstacles.

LEVERAGE A STRONG SUPPORT SYSTEM

Building a strong support system can be crucial in overcoming challenges and achieving success. One example of a successful individual who relied on a strong support system is Celine Dion. Celine Dion rose to fame as a talented singer, but her journey was not always easy.

She faced numerous obstacles, including the loss of her husband, René Angélil, to cancer. However, she was able to overcome these challenges with the help of her family, friends, and fans, who provided her with emotional and financial support.

Similarly, we can all build a strong support system to help us overcome our own challenges. This can involve seeking out the support of loved ones, forming supportive relationships with friends and colleagues, or joining a community or organization that aligns with our values and goals.

Having a support system can help us to feel less alone and more motivated, and can provide us with the resources and encouragement we need to overcome obstacles and achieve our goals. Whether we are facing personal or professional challenges, having a strong support system can be a powerful tool for success.

DEVELOP A GROWTH MINDSET

One of the most notable examples of a growth mindset is the legendary musician, Dolly Parton.

Throughout her career, Dolly has faced numerous challenges, including poverty, discrimination, and personal loss. However, instead of letting these challenges define her, Dolly has used them as fuel to drive her forward. Dolly grew up in a poverty-stricken family in the rural hills of Tennessee, and as a young girl, she had to overcome numerous obstacles to pursue her dreams of becoming a musician.

Despite her humble beginnings, Dolly never let her circumstances dictate her future. She taught herself to play the guitar, wrote her own songs, and eventually made her way to Nashville to pursue her dreams.

Throughout her career, Dolly faced discrimination and challenges as a female performer in a male-dominated industry. But instead of letting these challenges defeat her, she used them to her advantage. She embraced her unique style and character, and used her experiences to inspire her music and connect with her audience.

Dolly’s success is a testament to the power of a growth mindset and embracing challenges as opportunities for growth. She faced numerous obstacles along the way, but instead of giving up, she used these challenges to help her grow and achieve greatness.

Developing a growth mindset and embracing challenges as opportunities for growth is crucial in any career, including the music industry. The good news is, it’s something you can work on and cultivate.

Here’s how:

• Reframe your thinking: Instead of viewing challenges as roadblocks, try to see them as opportunities for growth and learning. This shift in perspective can help you approach challenges with a positive attitude and a determination to overcome them.
• Embrace feedback: Feedback, whether positive or negative, can be an invaluable tool for growth. Try to see feedback as a way to improve and grow, rather than as an attack on your abilities.
• Stay curious and open-minded: Keeping an open mind and a curious spirit can help you continue to grow and develop as an artist. Be willing to try new things, experiment with different styles, and learn from those around you.
• Celebrate your successes: Don’t be too hard on yourself. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small they may be, and use them as motivation to keep growing.

Remember, developing a growth mindset takes time and effort, but the reward is a greater sense of confidence, resilience, and success. So embrace the challenges, stay positive, and keep pushing yourself to grow and improve as a musician.