In my career I have had the honor of meeting artists from around the world who are at different levels of their art careers. It is immediately apparent which ones have developed the traits and behaviors to reach their highest potential of success. In this article I share six winning combinations.
1. Commitment and Discipline
Most artists who have enjoyed extraordinary achievements have a steadfast commitment to accomplishing their objectives and the discipline required to follow through. They are motivated by something… often it is a desire to prove their naysayers wrong. They don’t mind putting in the time and effort to get what they want. These traits may be the most important building blocks for success.
Successful artists take the time to develop their creative, career and financial art business plans. They also master the art of discipline to integrate proactive weekly, daily, and hourly activities that will produce results.
“That the moment one definitely commits oneself, then providence moves too… Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it.”
~ Goethe
2. Tenacity and Fortitude
In addition to developing their artistic talents and learning art marketing strategies they possess a high level of tenacity. They realize there are many outside factors that they have no control over and focus on those they can control. They forge ahead and stay on track in spite of rejection, economic conditions, and personal experiences.
They don’t allow distractions to interfere with helping them achieve rewarding careers.
“I’m convinced that about half of what separates successful entrepreneurs from the non-successful ones is pure perseverance.”
~ Steve Jobs
3. Clarity and Certainty
Unique and qualified artists have defined success in their own terms. They view their current career positions with clarity and objectivity. They have high levels of confidence and certainty. They periodically examine their current status, reevaluate their definition of success and make changes when they are necessary. That includes reexamining their goals periodically.
They also take time to celebrate their achievements which bolsters their confidence.
“A moment’s insight is sometimes worth a life’s experience.”
~ Oliver Wendell Holmes
4. Responsibility and Accountability
When things go wrong artists who excel in their careers take charge and responsibility. They don’t make excuses or blame other people. Expressions such as “It was his/her fault” or “I hope it happens” do not exist in their vocabularies. Instead, they know it’s up to them to “make it happen”.
They are also responsible money managers. They maintain up to date financial records in order to maintain their financial goals and run their art businesses with efficiency and profit in mind.
They are responsible and professional in their business relationships. They make sure they become people that others can depend upon.
“You must take personal responsibility. You cannot change the circumstances, the seasons, or the wind, but you can change yourself. That is something you have charge of.”
~ Jim Rohn
5. Time Management and Balance
Artists who are more productive career-wise understand the importance of managing time. They achieve balance between their personal and career activities.
They exercise self-control. For example, although they utilize social media as a powerful career building resource, they avoid becoming compulsive users. They place a time limit on activities like hanging out on Facebook and stop when it becomes counter-productive.
As they become better in managing time, they also avoid procrastination, which is one of the biggest reasons for business failure.
“Never leave that till tomorrow which you can do today.”
~ Benjamin Franklin
6. Reality and Pragmatism
Successful artists face reality. They don’t wear rose colored glasses or live in fantasy worlds. They realize the importance of making sacrifices, setting priorities, taking calculated risks and investing substantial amounts of time and effort to attain their goals. They strive to improve their strengths, acknowledge their mistakes, and raise the bar higher to achieve their maximum potential.
They don’t allow negative emotions to interfere with their dreams and desires.
Every time I turn aside to read your articles I am encouraged. Today I read your story. Thank you for sharing.
Sandra, It is very kind of you to read my articles and write a comment that lifts my spirits. Wishing you a blissful and healthy 2024!
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How do I run away from the engulfing feeling that I feel when I know it’s going to take a long time? Am I even disciplined enough? Because right now, not too much self discipline going on. Is there a switch you can turn on that makes the hard stuff easier to do?
Iam, I’m sorry you are going through a difficult time. You are not alone. My answer to your first question: Instead of running away from your feelings consider instead what steps can you take to walk towards positive choices and behavior? Your question about discipline: I believe it begins with us making a choice and then making self-discipline a habit. That may be the “switch” you’re looking for. Finally, most importantly, be kind and patience with yourself. And, of course, read the many positive and informative articles I’ve written to help you including this article “Advice from Artists Who Encourage You To “Never Give Up!”
I highlight your words. If there is a disappointment happening don’t let hat end promossions of art.
Appreciate opening-up to learn how to create or how to provide are very helpful
Excellent article and mentor !
Thanks so much for spirit of arts!
Thank you Yuni, I try my best! 🙂
Hi Renee,
I absolutely agree with all issues you commented above. The traits, tenacity, clarity and certainty, accountability, responsibility… etc… are very much appropriate words describing the characters of winning successful artists. And your issues gave me a good motivation for me to look back how I was doing and what position I was standing on. I’ve recently not produced new paintings much as I wanted. I’m not that lazy but I’m not in a good condition and environment for me to be able to pursue the dream on my own painting. But I’m all prepared to start again doing it someday soon. Your good advice has made me never lose my desire to commit myself achieving the ultimate personal goal.
Thanks, Renee… always!!!
Mason Kang
Hi Mason,
I hope you’re giving yourself some forgiveness and realizing that hardly anyone practices all of these traits 24/7, 365 days a year. Sometimes taking a short break from creating art or slowing the process to focus on other matters could be the right thing you need. And, before you know it, you’ll be embarking on a new wave of productivity! I want to thank you again for making me so proud when you created a a painting based on a photograph I took of Central Park during the winter snow. I’m shopping for a new camera now and plan to post new pictures on Facebook this winter.
All the best, Renee
As an art consultant, these traits also apply to my field. This article clearly states all that I know but cannot always explain to others when they ask about my business success. Well done, Renee and I especially like the quotes!
Hi Barbara,
Thank you. I consider receiving positive feedback from you to be the highest kind of praise.
I’m also grateful that you took time out of your busy schedule to read the article.
All the best,
Renee