WHERE IT MATTERS MOST
In a world where success is often measured by fame, fortune, and achievement, it can be easy for artists and music professionals to lose sight of what truly matters most. The journey of navigating the music industry can be demanding, often forcing us to focus on external validation rather than internal fulfillment. But what if we took a step back and asked ourselves, “What truly matters most?”
This question may seem simple, but the answer can be transformative.
As I reflect on my own journey, I realize that the things I once thought were most important—recognition, accolades, and material success—weren’t fulfilling me in the long term. My focus was on achieving milestones and gaining approval from others. But as I progressed, I found that these goals were leaving me drained, not inspired. The spark that once fueled my creativity began to fade, and I found myself questioning what I was really chasing.
“The things you think are important now won’t matter when you look back. Focus on what will.”—Anonymous
This shift in perspective led me to reassess what mattered most in my life and work. What I discovered was that true success lies not in outward validation but in inner fulfillment. Living with purpose, passion, and alignment to my own values became the foundation of what truly mattered.
For music artists, especially in today’s fast-paced industry, it’s easy to get caught up in chasing external goals—chart positions, followers, record deals. But have you ever asked yourself, “What does success really look like to me?” Is it having the biggest fan base? Or is it creating music that resonates deeply with your soul and connects with others on a personal level?
Define Your Vision
One of the most powerful things you can do as an artist is to create a clear vision for yourself. Success is personal. What success looks like to you may be completely different from someone else’s version. And that’s okay. In fact, it’s what makes your journey unique.
“If you don’t know where you are going, you’ll end up someplace else.”—Yogi Berra
When you define your own vision, you take control of your narrative. You’re no longer running someone else’s race—you’re running your own. The clearer you are about what matters most to you, the easier it becomes to navigate the challenges and distractions that will inevitably arise. Your vision becomes your anchor in a sea of uncertainty, helping you stay focused and aligned.
Ask yourself:
- Where am I headed?
- What do I want my music to stand for?
- What lights me up and gives me energy?
These questions will help you uncover your “why”—the deeper reason behind everything you do.
Discover What You Need
Once you’ve identified your vision, the next step is to figure out what you need to achieve it. This requires honest reflection and a willingness to adapt. What skills do you need to sharpen? What resources are you missing? Who do you need in your corner to support you?
“Success is where preparation and opportunity meet.”—Bobby Unser
Being clear about what you need allows you to take intentional steps towards your goals. It helps you avoid the trap of aimlessly drifting from project to project without a clear sense of purpose. It gives you direction, helping you stay focused on what matters most.
Make Room for What Matters
The music industry is notorious for its relentless pace and high demands. It’s easy to lose yourself in the grind, filling your schedule with back-to-back commitments and neglecting the things that truly feed your soul. But here’s the truth: You can’t pour from an empty cup.
In order to create your best work, you need to make space for the things that truly matter. Whether that’s spending time with loved ones, prioritizing your mental health, or making time to reflect on your creative process, making room for what matters is essential.
“The key is not to prioritize what’s on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities.”—Stephen Covey
What do you need to let go of in order to make space for what matters most? What are the habits, commitments, or mindsets that are draining your energy and pulling you off course?
Living With Intention
At the heart of everything is the concept of living with intention. When you live intentionally, you stop reacting to life and start creating it. You take ownership of your journey, aligning your actions with your values and staying grounded in what matters most.
“Your vision will become clear only when you look into your heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakens.”—Carl Jung
Living with intention doesn’t mean you won’t face challenges—quite the opposite. The music industry will always have its ups and downs. But when you know what matters most to you, you’ll have the resilience and focus to weather the storms and keep moving forward.
Final Thoughts
As artists and professionals in the music industry, it’s crucial to continually ask ourselves what matters most. The answer to this question may evolve as we grow, but staying connected to our core values and purpose will always guide us in the right direction. Success isn’t just about hitting the top of the charts or gaining fame—it’s about living a life that feels true to who we are.
Take a moment to reflect: What matters most to you right now? What are you doing today to live in alignment with that?
When we align our passion, purpose, and actions, we create a life—and a career—that truly matters. And that, more than anything else, is where it matters most.