032: Progress, Not Perfection

In almost every artistic training program the world over, regardless of the specific creative discipline, the pursuit of perfection is a driving factor in the training. I spent hours in the practice room during my conservatory training practicing the same passages over and over to get closer to that ever-elusive “perfect” ideal. Lessons and masterclasses were fine-tuned examinations of the details of technique, always in search of a better, cleaner, “more perfect” sound. There is a lot in that mindset that is commendable and valuable, but in my work with artist business owners, I see too many creatives willing to die in that pursuit of perfection. They are allowing perfect to be the enemy of good. Don’t let yourself fall into that trap. Let go of perfection and focus on your progress.

In this episode, you will learn: 

• Where perfection can be helpful and useful to you, and where it can hold you back. 
• How to use a focus on progress to improve the "business" side of your business.
• Why worrying about perfection can hamper your creativity.
• What Supportive Habits have to do with your progress and growth as an artist.
• How to change your mindset around both perfection and progress to help you thrive in your work life and your personal life.

In this episode, I reference this article by Austin Kleon, plus several books: 

• Art and Fear by David Bayles and Ted Orland
• Atomic Habits by James Clear
• The Money Book by Joseph D'Agnese and Denise Kiernan
• Profit First by Mike Michalowicz

I also reference a previous episode of this podcast: Episode 016: The Six Components of a Thriving Creative Business,

A full transcript of this episode can be found here. Full transcripts of every episode will always be available at the Starving Artist No More Blog.

Thank you for listening. Please feel free to reach out to me at www.StarvingArtistNoMore.com, with any questions, comments, or feedback. I'd love to hear from you.