Taking Ownership as a Creative Artist

As a developing musician, it’s easy to feel stuck—whether it’s writer’s block, lack of motivation, or the constant comparison to others’ success. You might blame external factors: lack of support, limited resources, or even the industry itself. While those challenges are valid, the truth is this: nobody else is responsible for your success but you.

One Thing to Think About

Many people or circumstances may contribute to your struggles, but waiting for someone else to fix them won’t get you anywhere. As an artist, your creativity, drive, and choices are entirely yours to own. No label, mentor, or fanbase can solve the problems that hold you back—they’re your responsibility to tackle.

Two Things to Ask Yourself

1. Are you taking full responsibility for your creative struggles?

For example, if your songs aren’t reaching the audience you want, are you actively learning about marketing or building your network? Or are you blaming the algorithm, the industry, or luck?

2. If not, why not?

It’s uncomfortable to admit when we’ve fallen short. But understanding why you might avoid responsibility—fear of failure, perfectionism, or overwhelm—can help you take the first step toward progress.

One Thing to Try This Week

Pick one area you’ve been struggling with—maybe it’s finishing a song, promoting your work, or improving your craft. Take full responsibility for it. Instead of blaming external factors, ask yourself, What can I do right now to move forward?

Maybe that’s dedicating 30 minutes a day to songwriting, reaching out to someone in the industry, or finally uploading your music to a streaming platform. When you take ownership, you’ll find that even small actions can shift your perspective and reignite your momentum.

Why This Matters

As an artist, no one else will invest in you until you fully invest in yourself. Taking responsibility doesn’t mean ignoring the challenges or unfairness around you—it means recognizing your power to create change despite them. It’s your journey, your voice, and your story. Own it.