As musicians, you have the gift of sensitivity which fuels your creativity and enables you to transmit powerful emotions. It can also make you more vulnerable to setbacks and criticism. These are completely unavoidable and an integral part of the journey. Indeed, few industries are as competitive and unstable as music. So how can you overcome self-doubts and feelings of insecurity in the face of challenges?

Confidence is a very necessary skill to have if you want to succeed in this industry, but it’s a skill that you can learn and develop.

Here are a few ways you can increase your self-confidence so you can get out of your comfort zone, approach people you want to work with, and avoid feeling sick to your stomach before you have to step on stage.

There’s something truly special about the opportunity to assess all that you’ve accomplished in the previous year and plan for a brighter tomorrow. Maybe it’s the planner nerd in me, but there’s just something truly illuminating about the chance to start fresh, give those dreams new life, and build upon the momentum you’ve already created.

To get started, ask yourself these questions, and really take the time to reflect. I suggest going into this with pen and paper and writing down your answers. Not only will it help you articulate your thoughts, but it will give you something to reflect back on.

With the start of a New Year comes endless possibilities for change, progression, and enormous growth. New Year, New You, right?

But when it comes time to put those thoughts into action, it can feel a little overwhelming, to the point it leaves you wondering—where do I start? I’m glad you asked.

Ah, the winter slowdown. Without fail, this is one of my favorite times of the year—and not just because I love the sparkle of holiday lights, or the warmth of family togetherness. It’s because it’s that glorious time where everyone is finally backing off their emails, slowing down their hustle, and taking the time to enjoy a bit of down time. Which, all on its own is an important piece of the holiday slowdown. But if you plan it just right, this can actually be one of your most productive times of the year.

Think about it—with everyone else going quiet, it gives you time to properly focus on growing your career, rather than rushing just to maintain it. So get out your calendar, your journal, and your favorite pen, because we’re about to dive into how to make the most of this winter slowdown.