Biggest Artisan Mistake #2
Not planning
Artists often think of planning as the antithesis of the creative act. But in practice successful works are seldom, if ever, created without forethought. Writers go through drafts, jazz musicians rehearse together, visual artists start with sketches and studies, and improv actors have a basic premise and outline of the action. So should it be with your business. Written planning provides owners with a map to reach their goal of a successful business. Yes, your plans should be written down, because the act of writing fixes your often-elusive ideas into a tangible form… and making them solid makes it more likely you’ll achieve your goals and not just endlessly think about them or talk about them with friends. Sculptor Bruce Beasley said it best, “the artists I have known who have had rewarding and successful careers are those who have been able to make very clear choices about their priorities and expectations.”
But planning doesn’t have to be the anxiety-inspiring ritual we make it out to be. Write down your answers to these questions and you’ll be 82% better off than someone who dreams big but can’t commit even to a piece of paper.
Core skills – What do you do as an artisan? What types of projects are you passionate about?
Business skills – What do you know? What don’t you know? What don’t you know you don’t know? What concrete steps can you take to either gain needed skills yourself or properly outsource them to a professional?
Target audience – Which clients offer the best opportunity for business growth? How do you reach them? What do they read? Where do they frequent?
Studio/Office – Where will it be located and how will it be equipped? What’s the minimum you can get by with in your first year?
Financial Goals – How much income can you realistically expect each month for the first six months? What expenses do you anticipate over the same time period?
