You’re a creative person.
You want to do more with your art and either make more of an impact or make more money with your gifts — or both!
That means you’re moving toward Turning Pro. Great!
Many artists make this same decision. Then they head confidently in the direction of their new vocation.
But quite often, even the most optimistic of them quickly get frustrated by slow progress.
Some eventually become cynical because few people seem to give a damn about their music, book, art, or other new project.
Can you relate?
If so, maybe you just need to get your ASK out there more often!
Allow me to explain …
A musician friend recently expressed frustration over the lack of financial support she was getting.
“I’m following my passion and doing good work, but very little money and attention are coming my way,” she moaned.
After chatting a while, I discovered she really hadn’t put structures and offers in place that would allow people to send money her way.
And, most important, she wasn’t ASKing people to benefit from the music and message she delivered.
She was putting out great music, but she was relying on people to figure out for themselves what to do with it.
She was waiting for them to come to her. And, as a result, they were slow to respond.
Here’s the reality …
People are busy … and distracted … and overwhelmed … and …
Oh look, a squirrel!
As much as you’d like to think your friends and fans will step up to the plate and support you on their own, most of them will require a nudge.
That means you must get in the habit of regularly ASKing people to do something to help you — and by doing so, to help themselves.
Of course, you must also learn the art of how to ASK. It can’t be in a self-serving way. You must always position your request in terms of how it benefits the other person.
But one thing I know for sure:
The more you ASK for the things you desire (in a helpful, value-added manner) the more you will get!
Sure, some people will tell you no. Many will still ignore you.
But a surprising number may start to say YES and actually give you what you ASK for!
But you won’t get to this radiant state of receiving until you ASK more often.
Call to action!
Here’s your new mantra: ASK, ASK, ASK, ASK, ASK!
Do you want more people at your live events?
ASK your fans to come. And do it more than once, in all sorts of ways — by email, on your website, via social media, in person, etc.
Do you want more media exposure?
ASK more journalists, editors, and bloggers. And follow up with them when you don’t hear back after the first or second request. ASK your fans for their suggestions on publicity outlets too.
Do you want to sell more of your creative output?
Come up with special offers and ASK your fans to make a purchase. And not just once, but ASK two or three times during any given promotion.
This is something all Empowered Artists learn to get comfortable with.
Got it? Good.
Now get your ASK out there!
(This article was adapted from my book, The Empowered Artist: A Call to Action for Musicians, Writers, Visual Artists, and Anyone Who Wants to Make a Difference With Their Creativity.)
I’d love your thoughts on this!
Please leave a comment, give this article a clap or five :) and share it with someone who would benefit from reading it.
This is Day 28 of my 30-Day Blog Writing Challenge.
Listen to an extended audio podcast version of this article here:
Bob Baker helps musicians, authors, artists, and creative entrepreneurs use their talents and know-how to make a living and make a difference in the world!
Listen to his Creative Entrepreneur or Music Marketing podcasts.
Check out Bob’s books on Amazon and follow him on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram.
He also creates affirmation and guided meditation recordings on his YouTube channel, Spotify, iTunes, Bandcamp, and other platforms.
