“A [person] is a success if [they] get up in the morning and go to bed at night and in between does what [they] want to do.“
Bob dylan
Music and our relationship with it are truly unique to each individual. Some of us get deeply involved and make a career out of it, recording albums, performing with a variety of artists, and traveling to renowned venues. But, behind the scenes, the pressure to succeed can often lead to a lack of balance, fulfillment, and financial stability.
For the first 28 years of my life, my main focus was building a career as a performing musician. Although the public saw me as successful, I was struggling behind the scenes with the demands of the industry, sacrificing my relationships and health in pursuit of success.
However, after a turning point, I realized that I needed to make a change and stepped away from my music career to find a healthier relationship with music. During this transition, I discovered a passion for financial literacy and started Thriving Musician LLC to help other musicians understand the importance of managing their finances.
My new goal was to play music because I wanted to, not because I had to.
Although the journey has been challenging, with its own set of obstacles like finding a new community, letting go of old relationships, and adjusting my identity, the rewards have been immeasurable. I now have the freedom to enjoy music on my terms, financial stability, quality time with loved ones, and the fulfillment of helping others.
This journey is not for everyone, but it’s important to evaluate our relationships with what we do and make sure they align with our values and goals. Reflect on your own relationship with music and ask yourself, how has it changed over the years?
Keep Thriving,
Spenser
P.S. If/when you hear music from me in the future, you will know it’s from the heart!