For artists releasing music, it's easy to get swept away by the allure of "making it" by chasing the numbers - streams, likes, chart positions - believing these external validations will define our success and happiness as artists. But what if we're looking in the wrong place? I’ve come to believe that creative fulfilment lies not in the outcome but in the process itself.
The Outcome Trap: Why External Validation Isn't Enough
Anyone who has released music has been there: the anxious refresh of streaming stats, the disappointment when a track doesn't get as much attention as expected. This outcome-oriented mindset, where our sense of worth is tied to external validation, can lead to a rollercoaster of emotions. It breeds frustration, anxiety, and a relentless pressure to achieve, often stifling the creativity we want to express.
The Process Paradigm: Finding Freedom in the Craft
I think it’s helpful to work on a mindset shift where creation itself becomes the primary reward. This is the essence of a process-oriented mindset - learning to love the rituals, the exploration of new ideas, and the constant refinement of your craft. It's about understanding that the journey, not just the destination, is where the real fulfilment lies.
Why the Process Wins
- Release the Pressure: When you focus on the process, the weight of expectation lifts. You're free to experiment, to make "mistakes" (which are really just learning opportunities), and to create without the fear of failure.
- Focus on Creating: A process-oriented approach fosters playfulness and exploration. You're more likely to take risks, try unconventional techniques, and stumble on those magical "aha!" moments discussed in this previous article.
- Build a Sustainable Foundation: By prioritising skill development and deepening your understanding of your craft, you lay the groundwork for long-term growth. Your abilities naturally evolve, leading to more fulfilling and impactful creative experiences.
- Intrinsic Satisfaction: When you enjoy the act of creating, you become less reliant on external validation. Your sense of worth comes from within, leading to a deeper and more lasting sense of fulfilment. Putting more energy into the things you can control, rather than the things you can’t, seems like a much better strategy to me!
Develop Your Creative Process
- Establish Your Rituals: Dedicate consistent time to your craft, even if it's just a short session each day. Consistency builds discipline and strengthens your connection to your creative core.
- Embrace the Unknown: Step outside your comfort zone. Experiment with new genres, techniques, and tools.
- Invest in Your Growth: Identify areas for improvement and actively seek out learning opportunities. Whether it's online courses, workshops, or simply dedicated practice, invest in your development.
- Celebrate the Small Victories: Acknowledge every step forward, every creative breakthrough, even if they’re small.
- Reconnect: Remember why you make music in the first place. Reconnect with the enjoyment of creating, and try to make that your driving force.
The Power of Reflection: Learning from Your Experience
Taking time to think about your creative process by analysing what works, identifying areas for improvement, and acknowledging your successes will significantly speed up your development compared to just going through the motions of creating things and carrying on. Self-awareness will deepen your understanding of your craft and reinforce positive creative habits.
The Long Game: Creative Fulfilment
In a world obsessed with instant gratification, embracing a process-oriented mindset is challenging. It's a commitment to the long game, recognising that lasting satisfaction comes from the journey itself. By shifting the focus from outcome to process, we’re giving ourselves a better chance at a sustainable and deeply rewarding creative path.
