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10 Ways to Invest in Your Career

by Kirsti Manna

At the beginning of a new year I’m always completely jazzed about the possibilities. I also usually have myself pretty scheduled already for January. So I was surprised at myself, to be honest, when I let January make a little left turn for me.

I was invited to the first Root 49 Music Writer’s Retreat. It was going to be in North Captiva Island, Florida the 2nd week of January. I had so much planned for that week, but decided to make the investment of time and energy and make the trip down.
Now I know you’re thinking, give me a break, Kirsti, why would you think twice about taking a trip to an island in Florida to hang out and write? You are so right…and I’m really glad I decided to go.

I remember something one of my coaches told me, no investment is a good one if you can’t afford it. But when it comes to investing in your career, I think it’s a little different. Based on my experiences and those of my colleagues, here are some ideas to help you stay on track.

1. Carve out the writing time

There is no way your writing will get better if you don’t invest time in working on it. Some of you are working during the day and it can be hard to save the energy and time to write on weekends or in the evening. Keep a date with yourself to write one night a week, or on the weekend, even if it’s just for a few hours. Become religious about this. You’ll notice an improvement as you flex those creative muscles and stay with the schedule.

2. Create the perfect space

Keep a separate, designated place in your home for writing. I have to write in a space with a window and I love a bright room, so I do a lot of work in my upstairs office. Maybe you just need to light a candle to create your perfect space, or use a certain chair with a small table. A porch swing can be inspiring, too. If you don’t have a separate room, define a space that is “your writing space.” When you’re there, you’ll be in the zone. Figure out who your are environmentally and how your environment inspires you.

3. Network

This is such an important aspect of your writing career, but so many people don’t know where to start. Promise yourself you will spend one hour a week networking whether it is online or in person. Check out local writer’s show or take yourself out for a coffee at the café where other writers frequent. You’re bound to meet a few people. If you don’t live in a music center, you can make plans to visit one and get started creating a network.

4. Stay current

Read the trades or online sites and keep up with the latest songs being released and the newest artists who are releasing them. Watch award shows and see what you can learn from an artist’s performance, especially if you are a performing songwriter. Soak up as much information as you can about what is happening for songwriters and publishers in regards to legislation and copyright protection.

5. Join a club

There’s nothing like being part of a songwriting community. You may really enhance your career by joining an organization like NSAI or Songwriters Guild. There are communities online or you may discover a cool creative group that meets regularly where you live. Check out Meetup. Here’s the link:http://www.meetup.com/ Just being around other creative people is inspiring.

6. Learn how technology can enhance your writing experience

This may be hard to believe, but I’ve actually met some writers who are not plugged in to the internet and all that is has to offer. Just because you don’t live in Los Angeles, doesn’t mean you can’t write with someone who lives there. You can write with them on Skype or via email. Also you can send your demos in progress files and collaborate musically. I love technology because when you embrace it, the creative sky is the limit.

7. Get physical

Keep in shape physically. Just 15 minutes a day can make such a difference. I can’t tell you how many song ideas I’ve come up with while taking a walk. Also while you’re writing, make sure you build some down time into your writing appointment. Sometimes something as simple as making a cup of tea will spur you on to an amazing line. Take a short walk or step outside and get some fresh air if you are feeling stuck.

8. Learn an instrument

I’m a piano player and a singer. I started taking lessons at around 7 years old and spent many an hour practicing every day. I still study voice and practice almost every day. There’s always a performance to get ready for or a new song to work out. I am a HUGE fan of studying an instrument and becoming proficient on that instrument. If you’re also a singer, then you should study voice as well as work on the instrument that you play. If you are a lyricist, study lyric writing on a regular basis by taking a class or consulting privately.

9. Learn about the music business

I know writing songs can be a blast, but along with that comes the responsibility you have to yourself to know everything you can about the music business. It’s important to understand how you are paid as a writer and publisher. Make the time to study up on the industry and the industry hit makers. That’s your dream, right, to be a hit maker? Go for it!

10. Sign up for a class or workshop

Attend seminars, classes and workshops where you’ll have the opportunity to meet and learn the ropes from hit songwriters. You will immediately put yourself into an elite group of songwriters who believe enough in themselves and their work to invest in their careers financially. You are also achieving several things by attending these kind of events. You will be gaining knowledge, networking, meeting new possible co-writers and many times having an opportunity to play your songs for industry pros. It’s a win-win situation!

Hope to hear from you soon.

Be inspired!

Love and success,
Kirsti

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