Building Your Music Career Around Your Busy Life

Pursuing a music career can be challenging, especially when you have a full-time job or other commitments. While many dream of being a full-time artist, the reality is that balancing music activities like songwriting, rehearsing, recording, and engaging with fans alongside a full-time job can be overwhelming. However, it is possible to make it work with the right mindset and self-management strategies.

Goldman Sachs predicts that by 2035, global music industry revenue will nearly double, reaching close to $200 billion, up from $105 billion in 2024. Streaming services are fueling this growth, with over 600 million users worldwide subscribing to music platforms. Although there may be no guarantees in the music industry, focusing on effective time management and setting clear goals could help you build a successful, artist-based career while maintaining your other commitments.

When trying to juggle both a career and creative projects, staying organized is key. A Self-Management System may help you prioritize tasks and stay on top of your to-do list, ensuring that you’re making progress on your music, even on busy days. 

For example, pre-scheduling songwriting sessions or rehearsal times can give you a clear structure, allowing you to work on your craft without neglecting other responsibilities. It could also help to track your progress by setting weekly or monthly goals. This could encourage you to stay motivated, even if the results take time to materialize. Engaging with your fans may also require time, but creating a dedicated strategy for interacting online can help maintain your relationship with your audience, all while preserving your other priorities.

There will inevitably be days when it feels difficult to find the time or energy for music. However, even dedicating short amounts of time each day to creative work can have a significant impact. It’s not about perfection or long hours, but about making music a regular part of the routine.

For those seeking to establish a more structured practice routine, The Exercise Book is an excellent resource. It can help musicians stay disciplined, even when time is limited. The book provides short yet effective practice routines that fit easily into a busy schedule, helping musicians maintain consistent progress.