It’s easy to get down about your music.

Your dreams, your talents, your identity, your time — they’re all wrapped up in your music.

So while you work hard to master songwriting, recording, performing, artist branding, or music marketing, you might be watching other artists in your genre or local scene go further, faster.

Or so it may seem if you’re looking at things through a competitive or fearful lens (which, admit it, we all do once in a while).

How to build confidence in your own artistry

We make music for a reason. And making music should feel good.

So if envy, imposter syndrome, writer’s block, or exhaustion are getting in your way, here are five important things to remember about your life in music:

1. Comparison is the thief of joy

The only music you should compare yours to is YOUR OWN.

Has your music improved over time? Be proud!

2. Love what you create

Don’t chase trends. By the time you “catch up,” the world will have moved on to the next shiny thing.

Follow your gut and be yourself. You might be right on time.

3. Get trusted opinions before you finalize your track

Don’t wait until release day to ask your professional network to take a listen.

The time to make your track  is BEFORE it’s finished.

4. Collaborate!

You don’t have to be an expert at everything.

Work with qualified people if you need help writing, producing, mixing, etc.

5. Commit to music as a lifelong project

Be in the game for exploration, expression, and most importantly, connection.

If you’re in it for the long haul, you won’t feel as much pressure on any one release.

Less pressure, more fun!

What works for you?

If you have rituals or mental tricks that help you out of the rut when you’re down about your music, I’d love to know.

Leave a comment below.