Are you self-sabotaging your band?
Here are 12 signs and what to do instead.
You focus more on what’s going wrong rather than right.
What to do instead: Identify what’s going wrong and then focus on all the possible ways you can take action to fix it.
You avoid anything that may lead to a stronger commitment.
What to do instead: Make more disciplined and productive decisions that will get you out of your comfort zone. Understand that your commitment does not end with the decision; you must keep at it.
You constantly criticize other bands/musicians.
What to do instead: Cultivate a greater sense of acceptance. Criticizing can actually say more about you than it does about the person you’re criticising.
You hold grudges.
What to do instead: Realize that the music industry is a particularly difficult one and things can and will go wrong more so than often. 90% of those times, it’s not personal. Strengthen your professionalism and let it go.
You don’t network enough.
What to do instead: Start networking before you need it.
You constantly compare your band to other bands.
What to do instead: Water your own grass.
Images: Alejandro Morelos
You often cancel rehearsals/gigs/meetups.
What to do instead: There is a saying that goes ‘80% of success in life is just showing up’. Make it a priority. I can’t stress this enough.
You put much more time and effort into other projects than into your band.
What to do instead: Eliminate distractions. The market is oversaturated, and we only have room for those truly committed.
You have unrealistic expectations.
What to do instead: Use the double-standard technique: What would you say to a band you admire in the same situation?
You don’t really believe in the band.
What to do instead: Move on. It’s game over, officially.
You try to do everything yourself.
What to do instead: Ask for help: it’s a grown-up’s game and it makes you look cool.
You don’t trust your bandmates.
What to do instead: Learn how to communicate effectively with others. You don’t need to become besties. You need to establish a safe working environment.
Good luck and rock on!
Until the next one,
Chelf
