Category Archives: Contributor

Wednesday Wisdom: How to Avoid Burnout When You’re Hustling 24/7

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Burnout is a monster all its own. It can chew you up and spit you out. When not addressed, it can haunt you like a ghost.

When you’re an entrepreneur — and especially if you’re an entrepreneur in a creative field — burnout is very real. More than likely, your passion became your business, and your business became your passion. And all of that has gotten tangled up with your need to survive, leading you to get caught in a 24/7 hustle that you can’t escape from.

Once burnout sets in, it can be very hard–but not impossible–to recover. However, the trick to dealing with burnout is actually preventing it in the first place. Here are my best tips.

Set boundaries

    Personally, one of the most important rules I’ve learned when it comes to both business and living a healthy and satisfying life is setting boundaries.

    Boundaries are crucial when it comes to maintaining a good work-life balance, and if you’re not used to setting them, doing so can feel scary. You might feel like you’re going to upset or disappoint the people around you, and in business specifically, setting boundaries can make you feel like you’re threatening important relationships, or like you’re putting yourself in danger of losing work.

    Every day, you are teaching others how to treat you, and when you’re constantly allowing your boundaries to be broken, you’re teaching them that you’re okay with it. Not only that, but by putting others’ needs before your own and prioritizing their demands, you’re damaging your self-esteem, you’re sending yourself the message that your time and effort are not worth as much as that of others, and you can get caught in an endless cycle. And the more you allow your boundaries to be violated, the more it can shake your self-worth, stir up frustration and anger that you might not even realize you’re feeling, make you feel powerless, and yep, lead to burnout.

    When you finally make the effort to set boundaries, you might feel some anxiety to begin with–because saying no can be incredibly intimidating when you’re not used to it–but you’ll find that the more you do it, the easier it will be. 

    Take breaks

      This may seem like an obvious solution, but when you’re going going going, working with clients, working on trying to drum up business, working to survive, taking breaks can feel like a luxury. Heck, making time for life in general can feel impossible.

      If you’re stuck in the hustle 24/7, your brain isn’t getting the rest it needs to function properly, nor are you leaving yourself any space for new ideas and solutions to come through. 

      Your mind needs time to focus on other things, so make it a non-negotiable to do something you love every day, even if it’s just for five minutes.

      Whether it’s cooking or crafting, reading or watching movies, whatever it is that fills you with joy and makes you feel alive, do it. Regularly. Consistently. Just do it.

      Exercise

        A major key to preventing burnout is stress management, and one of the best ways to manage stress is through exercise.

        Stress needs a way to leave the body. Otherwise, it can fester and build up inside you, leaving you feeling exhausted, drained, and just plain unwell.

        There are endless benefits to exercise. It helps lower stress hormones, it helps you sleep better, it can help you feel happier, it can help you focus. At the very least, it can help you get your mind on something else, for gosh sakes. And when it’s combined with fresh air and sunshine? There’s nothing like it.

        So take a walk, do some yoga, hit the gym. Move your body in whatever way feels good for you. Get the stress out.

        Find support from your community

          Human connection holds a lot of power. Maybe even more power than we realize. It even has the power to heal.

          If you’re a business owner, your default might be to do everything yourself, and you might have trouble giving up control, even when it comes to the smallest tasks. And if you’re a solopreneur, you really do wear all the hats, which, let’s be honest, can not only be draining as heck but can put you on the fast track to burnout.

          If there’s one thing I’ve learned from starting and running a business it’s the power of community and the importance of building a good one for yourself. Whether you find it in friends, family, fellow business owners and creatives, or all of the above, your community plays a crucial role in your overall success and mental health.

          Being able to rely on people you trust will help you feel supported, and when you’re caught up in what seems like a never-ending to-do list, they’re the ones who will pull you back into the present moment and remind you that there is more to life than the hustle.

          Burnout is a beast, but it’s a beast you can avoid by making a few small changes to how you approach your work and life. You don’t have to do it all overnight, but putting in a little effort one day at a time will make you stronger in the long run and prevent you from reaching a point that will be difficult to bounce back from.

          Wednesday Wisdom: What to Do When Life Throws You a Curveball

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          In baseball, a curveball is a pitch with more movement than pretty much any other pitch. There’s a lot of spin on it, and it will drop suddenly as it approaches the plate.

          It’s an off-speed pitch, so when it’s delivered, the batter can be thrown off balance. Their timing might be disrupted, and they might swing too early and miss.

          So, it’s no surprise that when we’re thrown a metaphorical curveball in life, it often has a similar effect on us.

          Those metaphorical curveballs can really put a hitch in our stride. They might represent obstacles that get in the way of achieving our goals and leave us feeling discouraged, or they might represent a disappointment that leaves us devastated and wondering how we’ll move forward.

          Of course, there’s always a chance we’ll hit that curveball and knock it out of the park, but when we swing and miss, that’s when we need to take a moment to get ourselves back on track. Here are my best tips.

          Let yourself feel all the feelings.

            At the end of the day, a curveball is a surprise, and when it’s not a good one, it’s important for us to recognize and experience our feelings in order to fully process what happened.

            We can get into trouble when we deny ourselves the time and space to do this. We can get trapped in our emotions without even realizing it, and as a result, they can get bigger and start affecting other parts of our lives.

            It’s important that we don’t shame ourselves for feeling a certain way, or be critical of ourselves when we “let” something bother us. The fact is, we’re human, and we react to the world around us in different ways. Having feelings and emotions is part of the human experience. 

            When a curveball comes our way, welcoming and validating what we’re feeling–instead of ignoring it and pushing it down–can help us release and move forward.

            So let yourself experience all the emotions and all the feelings. If this curveball made you sad, cry it out. If it was something truly absurd, laugh (because sometimes the only thing you can do is laugh, am I right?)

            Allow the change to happen.

              Of course, a curveball can come in a variety of forms, but sometimes it represents a significant and unexpected change in our lives. And we might find ourselves wishing that whatever change that curveball brought with it didn’t happen. 

              It’s when we resist that change, however, that we can get frustrated and stuck. To keep the baseball metaphor going here, we might wish that the curveball wasn’t thrown.

              Although it might seem counterintuitive, there truly is so much power to be found in allowing change to happen. As much as we may hate it at times, and as badly as we might want to control everything around us, the reality is that change is inevitable. And it’s not always a bad thing.

              So let the change happen. Go with the flow. Find peace in knowing who you are and that this curveball was just one bad pitch in the game of life.

              Swing again.

                When a curveball comes our way, it doesn’t mean that it’s our last strike. 

                You get three strikes until you’re out in baseball, which means you have more swings to turn that at-bat around.

                That being said, whatever the challenge you’re facing–whether you were rejected from your dream job or it’s raining on your wedding day–there’s likely a way to resolve it by swinging again.

                If you were rejected from your dream job at your dream company, keep an eye out on other job openings there and look for ways to connect with other people who work there. If it’s raining on your wedding day, put up a tent, or move it inside.

                Sure, the solution might not look like what you thought or hoped it would, but that next pitch that comes your way might be a fastball. And guess what fastballs are great for? Hitting home runs.

                When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.

                  Yeah, yeah. We’ve all heard this one before. But it’s actually decent advice, as corny

                  and played out as it might seem.

                  And when I hear that saying, I also hear this: Sometimes we just need a little perspective.

                  Making sweet lemonade is looking at sour lemons from a different angle, isn’t it? So, if we think about that curveball from a different angle, we can consider how we can make the best of it. In baseball, a curveball is a deceptive pitch. Maybe that curveball is really a blessing in disguise. Maybe the path we started walking down really wasn’t the best path for us, and that curveball is helping redirect us toward something better. Maybe that curveball was what we needed to help us start building the life we’ve always dreamed of.

                  As difficult as it can be to reframe our thoughts when we’re disappointed, the best part is that when we’re able to see a situation from a different perspective, and learn how to see the light in the darkness, it can change the whole game. 

                  Without sugarcoating it, getting thrown a curveball can really suck. It can be easy to feel sorry for ourselves, get angry, and become, well, miserable, but with just a few tweaks to our mindset, we can understand that it was just a little bump in the road and be ready and waiting for the next pitch that comes our way.

                  Wednesday Wisdom: How to Break Out of Your Comfort Zone

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                  Ah, the comfort zone.

                  It’s a cozy place, isn’t it?

                  But as warm and safe as it might feel, our fear of breaking out of it is often what holds us back, when it comes to moving forward in life. And it’s usually when we finally break those chains that we grow and change in the best ways, and even achieve our greatest accomplishments.

                  If the time has come for you to break out of your comfort zone, here are some of my best tips for making it happen.

                  1. Start with small steps

                  If you’re thinking about testing the boundaries of your comfort zone, you probably have an idea of what you want to chase after outside of it. So if you’re feeling a little intimidated, start small!

                  Think about what it was like when you were learning to read. You didn’t go from not knowing how to read to all of a sudden being able to read “War and Peace,” did you? Of course not! And did anyone expect you to do so? NO! You learned the alphabet, you learned vowels and consonants, you learned what sounds the letters made when combined in different ways. Then you might have started reading picture books, then short chapter books, and then novels.

                  Fast forward to today, and instead of learning how to read, maybe your goal is to attend a networking conference, but the mere thought of it scares the living daylights out of you. What is one way that you can dip a toe in the water?

                  The internet has been a blessing for those who might find it easier to connect with people online than to jump right into in-person networking. So maybe you start with meeting a new person or two in a Facebook group related to your business. Or maybe you summon the courage to actually attend that conference, but instead of overwhelming yourself with the thought of connecting with everyone in the room, you focus on saying hi to one new person.

                  Breaking out of your comfort zone can be a process. Although small steps might feel insignificant now, they add up and will lead you to where you want to go. 

                  1. But sometimes taking a giant leap is necessary

                  Sometimes you need to stop thinking and start doing. Really.

                  So it can be better–and easier even–to bust out of your comfort zone like a wild horse and go after the thing already. 

                  Just like ripping off a Band-Aid, there are times when it’s necessary to take a big step outside the lines of your comfort zone in order to grow in the way you need to. Yes, it can be scary as hell to go all in like that, but the rewards far outweigh the risk.

                  How do you take that leap though? 

                  First, you have to commit to doing the thing, and you can’t put pressure on yourself. If you put too much pressure on yourself, you’ll likely begin to get overwhelmed and talk yourself right out of it. 

                  It’s going to feel hella uncomfortable to take a huge step out of your comfort zone, but you have to get comfortable with feeling uncomfortable. Remember, discomfort isn’t always a bad thing. Discomfort often happens when we challenge ourselves. And that’s a really good thing.

                  Most importantly, though, don’t forget to believe in yourself. Believing in your unique power will give you the push you need, and it will get you further than you ever thought possible.

                  1. You might be hesitant to try something new. Try anyway.

                  When it comes to trying something new, some people are able to dive right in with no fear, but so many others are hesitant or nervous. 

                  But guess what? It’s totally natural to feel that way.

                  Whether it’s trying a new food, starting a new job, or speaking in front of an audience for the first time, stepping out of our comfort zone can be scary and intimidating. So much so that it can cause us to shrink back and stay where we are.

                  But trying is a key factor when it comes to breaking out of our comfort zone because trying is actually us making the effort to escape it. And that’s a pretty big deal. 

                  1. Let go of the fear of failure

                  I know, I know! This is much easier said than done. But the fear of failure is more often than not one of our biggest obstacles when it comes to personal growth.

                  Yes, everyone gets scared of failing, and perhaps some of us experience this more often than others. However, when you think about it, “failing” is actually learning. And when you’re able to flip the switch and you’re able to look at that anxiety of failing as excitement about possibility instead, big things can happen. Like major, huge, life-changing things.

                  We talked about trying something new earlier, right? 

                  Trying is never failing.

                  Say you went to that networking conference we talked about earlier, but you didn’t talk to anyone. That’s ok! Although you might feel like you failed, you didn’t. You took the first step, which was actually attending the thing with the goal of meeting someone new. You can always try again at the next event, but now you have a better idea of what to expect and it might be easier for you to strike up a convo with someone new. 

                  What matters in the end is that you have the courage to try, and although it might not always work out the way you hope it will, you’ll likely learn something that you wouldn’t otherwise, and that in itself is a success, not a failure.

                  If we spent our lives stuck within the confines of our comfort zones, we’d never grow. We’d never achieve all the wonderful things we’re meant to achieve. We’d never experience all that life has to offer. So don’t let those chains prevent you from going after what you want. Dream. Explore. Thrive.

                  What to Do When Your Passions Change

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                  When a new year starts, many of us often find ourselves reassessing our lives, goals, dreams, and passions, but when we go through this process, we might realize that we are feeling stagnant and that something needs to change.

                  If you’ve been feeling stuck in a rut lately, and that the same passions that once fulfilled you are no longer serving you, you’re not alone.

                  Oftentimes, our passions come to be such a big part of our lives that, when we realize that they are no longer serving us, it can feel intimidating — and may leave us questioning who we are.

                  But here’s a secret: We’re allowed to change.

                  In fact, the only constant in life is change, and if we don’t change, we don’t grow. The world changes. The human species is constantly changing, and we as individuals are always changing throughout our lives. We grow and adapt, we meet new people, we learn new things.

                  So it’s OK if what once brought you joy no longer does because you’re not the same person you were last year or last month. Heck, you’re not even the same person you were yesterday.

                  If the person you are today wants to change direction and pursue a new passion, go for it! Find the next thing that satisfies your spirit so much that you could just burst.

                  Here are some of my best tips for making it happen:

                  1) Give yourself permission to follow a new path.

                    Giving yourself permission to try something new can be incredibly difficult. It can even feel scary. And when you’re used to following the rules and doing what you have to do–and what is expected of you–it can be easy to forget that you have a choice.

                    Yeah. There’s a little something called free will, which means you always have a choice, especially when it comes to your passions and the hobbies you pursue, but when you’re not used to owning this–that you have a choice–it makes it that much harder to allow yourself to act on it.

                    If you’re a perfectionist, following a new path can provoke a fear of choosing the wrong one. You might get caught in that dreaded black and white thinking and feel like you’re being forced to choose between life and death.

                    Just remember that no one can force you to pursue a hobby or passion that no longer serves you. In fact, you have all the freedom in the world to explore new interests. You only have to let yourself do it.

                    2) Talk to people.

                      Throughout the course of our lives, we cross paths with countless people who affect us in all different ways. Some may hurt us, but others may deeply inspire us, and it is when we meet those people that we might discover new parts of ourselves.

                      If you’re feeling a bit lost, and like the passions that have brought you so much joy for so long no longer do, get out there and talk to people. Talk to your friends. Talk to your family. (You might feel like you know everything there is to know about your closest friends and family members, but you probably don’t). Talk to your cashier at the grocery store. Talk to your local librarian. Talk to the barista at Starbucks.

                      When you talk to other people, a few things can happen. First, you can start understanding their perspectives and what life looks like through their eyes, which is valuable in itself. But when you talk to people, it also exposes you to new things that you never would have known about otherwise. You can learn about their hobbies and passions and what brings them joy. Your local librarian might be a rock climber or a beekeeper who makes her own honey. Maybe your mom used to write songs when she was young but you never knew that about her, and maybe you’ll realize that same love for music runs through your veins too, but you never gave it room to surface before.

                      So talk to people. It might change your life.

                      3) Get out of your comfort zone.

                        That darn comfort zone. We all know the definition of our own comfort zones and where the boundaries are that keep us feeling safe. And I’m sure we can pinpoint the times when staying in our comfort zone held us back, as much as it sucks to admit.

                        Sometimes, though, we really need to break out of it, as uncomfortable, and–let’s face it– unnerving, as it might seem. It’s often how we see the most significant growth in ourselves.

                        Exploring past the boundaries of our comfort zone allows us to challenge ourselves, which, although daunting, has so many benefits for our overall happiness. If we never challenged ourselves, we wouldn’t grow and we wouldn’t discover new passions.

                        Break free from the chains that are holding you back! You never know what’s waiting for you on the other side. 

                        4) Follow that spark.

                          While you might be finding that the passion you’ve had for years isn’t doing it for you anymore, you might also know exactly what you want to try next. Maybe just thinking about pursuing that new path is already lighting you up inside.

                          You never want to deny yourself of something that has the potential to make your soul smile, and feeling that spark within you? That means you’re excited about it. And that’s a very good sign.

                          So don’t deny that call. Be sure to answer it!

                          Life is too short to feel stuck and uninspired. But when we make the choice to take action and pursue new passions that satisfy our spirits, leaving behind those that no longer serve us, we are honoring ourselves, and that is one of the best ways to live.

                          Indie Darlings: November 2024

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                          We conclude our November rollout of The Playlists with the one that brings us closest to our true Underground roots.

                          Indie Darlings consists of the cuts that are ambient, experimental, and don’t quite fit into any one genre box. You’ll hear shades of pop, rock, and folk here — often at the same time — as you get lost in a diverse sea of sounds.

                          We phoned a friend for this one, too. Our friends at Circle Back Entertainment Group contributed roughly half of the selections here, because we believe in the power of teamwork! (Also, adding this playlist to the mix was actually their idea…)

                          Track listing
                          BoyWithUke – Ghost
                          Julia Kahn – Badlands
                          Accidental Friend – Empty Love
                          almost a.m. – Stand Still
                          Nico Son – Let This Go
                          Hunter West – Don’t Cry
                          Hugs ft. Parking Lot Funeral and Karaoke Bar – hummin
                          Post Meridiem – Love
                          Chasing Tonya – Why
                          Pierce Alexander – Doll Parts
                          Sierra Carson – skeletons
                          Davis Evanoff – Cranberries (2024)
                          rakey – Everything Is Summer
                          Adam Lamah – Even If
                          Common Man – Vermont
                          The Stremes – Got Myself Together
                          Max Blansjaar – Burning In Our Name
                          Unbelievable Truth – Roadside No. 2
                          Shawn Andrew – Valley of Hope
                          book NOT brooke ft. Zina – Everything I Wanna Know

                          Wednesday Wisdom: How to (Finally) Do the Thing

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                          How many times have you wanted to do something, or wanted to chase after a big dream you’ve had, but then you just…didn’t?

                          Maybe fear was holding you back. Or maybe you were battling procrastination. Maybe you were overthinking yourself right out of the whole thing. Maybe this is something you’re battling right now.

                          It can be tough to break out of a cycle of overthinking, and feeling like everything has to be perfect before you start doing what you want to do. It can be tough to break out of that fear. But you’ll never get anywhere if you keep getting stuck in the same place.

                          Sometimes it’s hard to just do the thing.

                          Below are some of my best tips for getting started so you can finally check that thing off your list.

                          Ask yourself what you’re most hesitant about

                          Sometimes when we can’t do the thing it’s because we start overthinking. As a result, a bunch of what-if scenarios might pop up in our heads, further preventing us from moving forward.

                          Thoughts like “What if I fail?” or “What if I’m making a mistake?” can be pretty daunting, and self-doubt can start taking over quickly. Maybe you find that imposter syndrome is rearing its ugly head and it’s convincing you that you’re neither capable nor worthy of achieving your dreams. (More on how to combat imposter syndrome here).

                          If fears like these are holding you back from starting, take the time to reflect on what you think will happen if you actually do the thing you want to do. Get honest with yourself. Write it all out. Feel all the feelings.

                          Sometimes just acknowledging our fears is exactly what we need to do in order to realize that, sometimes, they really aren’t as big as they might seem. Sometimes just acknowledging our fears removes the fear itself and you can get moving in the right direction again.

                          Take one small step forward…

                          When we feel really stuck, and like we can’t get going, sometimes it’s actually because we’re feeling overwhelmed. 

                          That thing you want to do? Maybe it seems huge and impossible to you right now, but maybe it will seem more achievable if you break it down into smaller pieces.

                          Of course, it’s super easy to feel overwhelmed when we’re thinking about climbing a mountain instead of climbing two steps up a staircase, right? So, is there something you can do right now that can be that first step you need to get started? 

                          Are you dreaming of opening a business but can’t even begin to fathom how exactly you’re going to make that happen? Maybe your first step is coming up with your business name. Have you always wanted to write a song but never wrote one before? Find a local writer’s round and get your feet wet that way.

                          When we can break down our biggest dreams into smaller, achievable goals, and then we achieve one of those goals, it gives us an important sense of accomplishment and fills us with the excitement that’s going to help us to keep moving forward.

                          Or… take a step back

                          Sometimes we get so deeply involved and invested in something that we start losing perspective. Small obstacles might start becoming bigger in our minds than they are in reality, and we might start believing that they’re impossible to overcome. Basically, we start psyching ourselves out. Big time. 

                          If you’ve been thinking and thinking and thinking about the thing you’re thinking about doing, take a break and do something different. Get out of your head! Take a walk, watch a movie, go out to dinner with a friend. Anything. It will give your mind a much-needed breather, allowing you to refocus.

                          Meditate

                          Meditation is most commonly known as a coping method for stress and anxiety, but it can also be an important tool when it comes to accomplishing our goals and chasing after our greatest dreams.

                          Taking a moment to ground ourselves in the present moment can help shift our perspective and see that thing we want to do in a different way. Maybe you’ll realize you were approaching it all wrong and you’ll discover a new road to take that will allow you to achieve your goal even faster.

                          Maybe you’ll realize that everything happens at the time it’s meant to happen.

                          Maybe you’ll find a new sense of patience that will help you keep chugging along, rediscovering the drive within you to make your dream come true.

                          It’s natural to feel stuck and overwhelmed, but when there are things you want to do, sometimes it’s difficult to get them done. Don’t let a little hesitation or setback get in your way, because there’s no worse regret in life than not trying. You’ll be so glad you did.

                          Wednesday Wisdom: Spring Cleaning Tips for Creatives

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                          Spring is finally here, and it feels pretty good, doesn’t it?

                          This spring was a little bit different because we also had the pleasure of experiencing a solar eclipse in North America. This rare event brought a little extra energy to the beginning of the season and has seemed to renew the spirits of many.

                          But of course, the arrival of spring is also traditionally associated with spring cleaning, and at least for me, I’ve felt the need to clean more this year than perhaps ever before.

                          Many of us in the industry often find ourselves juggling quite a bit, and the opportunities to organize and deep clean in all aspects of our lives can often be few and far between the busier we get, and as other tasks begin to take priority. However, since spring so appropriately lends itself to starting anew, let’s all take the opportunity together now to put our affairs in order before the chaos of mid-year really starts to hit.

                          Below are some of my favorite tips for regrouping and refreshing the mind and the space around us, especially during this time of year.

                          Take the time to refocus on your goals. Or set new ones.

                            Now is about the time that those New Year’s Resolutions have been long forgotten, or at least, they’ve become harder to stick with, but if you’ve lost sight of the goals you set earlier this year and are feeling a bit lost and unfocused (which is totally understandable as we undergo this seasonal reset) you can easily get back on track. 

                            All you have to do is start again. Write out your goals, but maybe instead of beginning with a huge one that seems impossible (like finally starting your business, for example), begin with smaller ones that you can accomplish today, which can even include something as small as emptying the dishwasher or making dinner at home instead of ordering takeout, or posting something on Instagram.

                            Then decide on two to three goals that you’d like to accomplish tomorrow. And then a few more for the next week. 

                            After that, jot down what you’d like to accomplish in the next month, which for you may mean booking a show or attending a networking event. 

                            Sometimes planning for the near future, instead of allowing our minds to jump too far ahead, can be just what we need to course correct. Plus, as you set and accomplish goals now, it’ll give you that much more momentum to keep working toward those bigger goals down the line.

                            Update your social media accounts.

                              When we get insanely busy and start to get thrown out of our usual routines, more often than not, it’s our social media posting is the first casualty of the chaos, because although it’s a necessary task, especially if you’re an artist or business owner, it’s not something that in the grand scheme of things is typically considered “critical” when compared to other tasks, like filing your taxes, for example. It’s very easy to put posting to IG on the back burner when we have family in town, or when we get busy with client work, or when we get sick.

                              What better time to get back to it than now, though? Spring leaves us feeling refreshed in so many ways, so why not bring that energy to your social media accounts? Show your followers how excited you are about everything you’ve been working on and bring them along for the ride!

                              If you’ve realized you haven’t posted to your grid since the beginning of December, just post something! Don’t overthink it. 

                              Now is also the perfect time to put together a content schedule for the next week, or even the next month if you’re feeling ambitious. 

                              Clean off your desk!

                                I don’t know about you, but my work desk sometimes gets super cluttered super fast and I can quickly find myself buried under piles of bills to pay and reminders scribbled on Post-It notes and legal pads (yes, I still take notes the old school way, don’t hate). When that happens, my mind starts to feel just as cluttered, and to be honest, it doesn’t do anything for my productivity. 

                                If you’ve ever found yourself in a similar situation, you might have felt the same way, and if that’s you right now, keep on with the spring cleaning and clean off that desk! Take half an hour (or even 10 minutes!) to throw out the dried out pens, file away important papers, and throw out the junk mail. If you’re someone who eats at their desk while they work (I am super guilty of this one), put those dirty dishes in the dishwasher. Put every random object that has found its way into your work space back where it belongs.

                                Clearing all that clutter around you will help clear your mind, making room for new thoughts and ideas to come in. So get to it!

                                While you’re at it, clean up your computer!

                                    When you think about it, your computer desktop is just an extension of your physical desk but in digital form. I know that I’m not the only one who lets documents and folders clog up the desktop of my computer screen as well, and I can’t stand the visual clutter when it starts getting out of control, which happens fast if you don’t stay on top of it.

                                    Delete all the screenshots you don’t need anymore. Organize what you can into folders, and hide away anything you don’t need immediate access too. If you’re anything like me, once you do, you’ll be breathing a huge sigh of relief!

                                    Spring is such an optimistic time of year, and there’s no better feeling than when you’ve taken the time to refocus and reset. Take advantage of this time to do yourself a favor that will only benefit you going forward (spring cleaning can be a form of self-care, after all). You’ll thank yourself later!

                                    Music is the Universal Language That Brings Us Together

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                                    By Jacquelyn Gomez, Sony Music

                                    Music is the universal language that brings us together! Let’s talk about Latin music, which makes everyone want to become a pro on the dance floor! Bachata, reggaeton, salsa, latin pop, corridos are just a few of the most popular latin genres. Bachata and salsa are known to unite professional dancers around the world including the United States, Europe and Latin America.

                                    One of the youngest bachateros in the Latin industry, Super Joell has made contributions to the bachata genre and of course to music and we can see his thoughtful leadership! Not only is he a Latin artist breaking through with his dynamic dance rhythms, but is currently on tour in major cities in the United States and Latin America.

                                    The young Dominican, born in New York, is a singer, rapper and composer. Joell’s songwriting skills, singing skills, acting skills prove to differentiate him from other artists.

                                    Super Joell rose to prominence with the bachata group 24 Horas, where he served as co-lead singer alongside his cousin Mickey Then, who has written for artists like Prince Royce. Their first studio album, Los Inolvidables (via Universal Music Group imprint Machete Music garnered worldwide recognition, including more than 25.3 million views on official YouTube videos, 31.4 million Spotify streams on Spotify, and nominations for several international awards, including Billboards Awards and Lo Nuestro Awards.

                                    Thanks to the success of hits like “Por Favor” and “Aun Me Pertences,” 24 Horas’ rise to prominence has given Joell the opportunity to grow as an artist and learn from many cultures around the world. Most recently, Joell was a special guest at Romeo Santos’ afterparty in Los Angeles and will be touring major Latin festivals in the US.

                                    What does Latin music contribute to the overall industry?

                                    “I’m pretty sure that Latin Music contributes a lot to the overall music industry,” Super Joell said. “As you can see today, we have all these music streaming platforms, including Spotify, Pandora, Apple Music just to name a few, and the impact that Latin Music has is noteworthy.”

                                    He continues: “The Latin music industry, which I am a part of, has a lot of power. Latinos are the ones that listen the most to music, because we like to party and we love to stream music. Not only can you see the big impact we are making with these skyrocketing numbers in Latin music, but we are fundamental in how music has evolved and the importance our artists have made — and continue making — in the industry.”

                                    Super Joell also notes the rise of Latin artists like Bad Bunny, Shakira, and Karol G to the top of the charts.

                                    “All of them are top artists at a worldwide level on all the music platforms,” he said. “We (Latinos) are one of the main consumers of music and we are very important. Latin music is definitely a major leg to the music table. I couldn’t imagine music without Latino music, and you can’t deny the impact Latin music has made in the past decades, including one of the biggest Latin hits of all time, Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee’s ‘Despacito.'”

                                    Current projects

                                    In 2018, Super Joell released his first EP in the Urban music category, titled PM. The EP was produced by world famous Dominican producer Juan “Xtassy” Abreu, alongside producers A & X (Danza Kuduro, J Balvin, Carlos Vives, Don Omar, Daddy Yankee). Since then, Super Joell has worked as a composer on songs for various artists, expanding his musical repertoire by working with artists such as CNCO, Cornetto, Shaggy, Dalex, Darkiel, and Maffio.

                                    In 2023, Super Joell is preparing to release his new solo album, Mala Mia. The record will feature his new bachata single, “Todo se Jodio,” produced by Mayinboto. The single has already been included on top playlists in the Latin world, including Reggaeton 2023, Colombia Top 10, Bachata Sensual 2023, Pop Latino 2023, Bachata Sensual, Bachata Revolution, La Bachata Mas Nueva 2023, Venezuela Top 10, Reggaeton 2023 Lo Mas Pegao, and many more.

                                    For updates, please follow Joell on instagram @superjoell!

                                    Wednesday Wisdom: What to Do When You’re Feeling Uninspired

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                                    Anyone who creates regularly knows that creativity ebbs and flows, and inspiration is constantly found and lost.

                                    It’s great when you’re hitting your stride and you can’t keep up with all the great ideas that are coming to you, pushing you forward as you continue working towards your goals. But, what happens when the well from which you draw your best ideas runs dry?

                                    It happens. I’ve been there. When it seems like there’s no inspiration to be found anywhere, it can be hard to create anything, and it can feel like you’ll never be able to produce anything worthwhile again.

                                    But, I’ll tell you a secret: that inspiration that so quickly (and sometimes dramatically) disappeared into thin air always comes back. Always.

                                    If you’re desperate to fill your cup again, here are some tips for unearthing the inspiration you need, in order to get back to doing what you do best.

                                    Watch a new movie

                                    Watching a movie is like escaping into a different world, isn’t it?

                                    So, what better way to give your brain a much-deserved break, than by entering a world you’ve never been to before and watching a new movie?

                                    This can be a film in your favorite genre or, if you want to really push the limits of your comfort zone, you can choose something in a genre that you’ve never dared to explore before. (For example, if you usually watch rom-coms, try a thriller, or vice versa).

                                    It can be so easy to get stuck in a routine, and when you find something you love, it can be really easy to continue . After a while, though, doing the same thing over and over again can result in boredom, which can lead you to hit those dreaded kinks in your creative process, because your brain isn’t absorbing anything new.

                                    Sometimes, your mind just needs a simple switch of the old gears to unkink that chain. Watching a new movie can be one of the easiest ways to do that.

                                    Read a book

                                    Reading is a powerful tool to have in your arsenal. Besides the fact that it’s one of the greatest sources of learning and entertainment that humankind has to rely upon, it can also revive your vocabulary, expose you to different sentence structures, allow you to “meet” new people (i.e.; characters), and bring you to encounter new places and different themes with which you don’t have personal experience.

                                    In short, if you’re a (song)writer, reading can do wonders for your writing and composition skills.

                                    Personally, I’m not always able to get around to reading for fun as often as I’d like. But, I find that every time I do, I’m more inspired, feel more excited, and just have a better attitude toward writing in general.

                                    Whether you’re writing a song or a musical, an advice column for fellow musicians, or keeping up your own blog, you will encounter moments when you’re too burnt out to string even one sentence together. And, when you’re writing regularly, this might be happening more often than you’d like. Stop forcing yourself to squeeze words out of an empty well, and read a chapter or two from a book. Any book, no matter if it’s fiction or non-fiction, or even a couple of magazine articles. Many times, it can be just what you need to get the juices flowing in the right direction again.

                                    Observe the world around you

                                    From songwriters, to authors, to filmmakers, so many creative minds have found their greatest inspiration when they’re observing everyday life.

                                    If remote working has had you cooped up in the house for too long, take the time to venture out and go somewhere new. Go to the beach, the coffee shop on the corner, the new restaurant that just opened up downtown—anywhere that’s new to you.

                                    Experiencing a new environment is extremely beneficial for our mental health and well-being. It breaks us out of the monotony which keeps us in an unproductive drought. And, you never know what snippets from conversations you’ll overhear, or interactions between strangers — or with strangers, if you’re an adventurous extrovert — that you’ll find. Just a simple phrase can spark an overflow of ideas.

                                    When you get out and experience the world—when you get out and really live—that’s when the magic happens. So, search for and savor those moments that can reignite the fire within you. Those moments can lead you to your next big idea, whether it’s the subject of your next song, or the concept for a new album.

                                    Take a shower

                                    If you’re a fan of Stranger Things, you’ve learned a thing or two about sensory deprivation. However, you don’t have to immerse yourself in a scary water-filled tank to benefit from its effects.

                                    In addition to being a nice break from the chaos of the day — not to mention, the constant bombardment of news and technology — a hot shower sometimes seems to hold the keys to the universe. Especially when you’re stuck in a rut.

                                    The heat and the noise of the water rushing over you can be enough to separate yourself from the hectic madness of daily life. This may give your brain the space it needs to refocus and find the answers it’s looking for.

                                    Heck, they even make waterproof notepads now. You can jot down those brilliant ideas that come to you while you’re washing your hair.

                                    It’s great to have a never-ending flow of inspiration, but we all know that isn’t realistic. Unfortunately, the inspiration we need to produce our work can sometimes run away from us and go into hiding.

                                    It won’t be lost forever, though. You just have to know where to look to find it again.

                                    Key Strategies for Indie Artists to Protect Their Creative Works: Insights From a Legal Expert

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                                    By Auntie Donna Brown, CEO of Always Resourceful LLC

                                    In this article, we will explore the concept of intellectual property and its significance for indie artists. Put simply, “intellectual property” refers to creations of the human mind. Any indie artist who has ever created a unique work has produced “intellectual property,” also known as IP. The value of safeguarding an artist’s creativity goes without saying and can be priceless.

                                    Let’s begin by discussing copyright, one of the tools used by indie artists to protect their intellectual property. However, it’s crucial to understand that copyright is not the only way to safeguard original works of art, which is a common misconception.

                                    Protecting your creative works requires a multi-faceted approach that encompasses copyright and trademark registration, patenting, trade secrets, active monitoring for infringements, and creating unique content. These elements can be strategically used together or separately to identify and distinguish your brand from others and potentially amplify your income through licensing and deals.

                                    A Multi-Faceted Approach: Safeguarding Your Creative Works

                                    Indie artists who invest time and energy in creating original work generally want to protect it. However, many may not realize that their work is intellectual property, and even fewer may have been taught how to leverage the IP they create to exponentially increase revenue by identifying multiple revenue sources. As a US IP lawyer with a unique background in strategic management, it is important to me that artists understand how to monetize, grow, and protect the value of the art they create, just as businesses understand the need to create multifaceted strategies to maximize revenue.

                                    While many may be familiar with federal copyright protection, in this article, we will explore why federal trademark registration and an ongoing monitoring strategy for infringements can be equally important.

                                    Let’s start with creating unique content. Educate yourself about intellectual property rights and equip yourself with the knowledge to maximize the value of your work and ensure it receives the recognition and respect it deserves.

                                    Now, you might be wondering what all this means for you as an indie artist. Instead of overwhelming you with abstract legal phrases, let’s explore your options by following the journey of a hypothetical indie band named “The Night Lights,” led by our imaginary songwriter, Emma.

                                    Let’s assume that after a couple of gigs, The Night Lights band has been well received by its audiences, and now Emma and the band are exploring potential opportunities and safeguarding against potential threats to the band. In a meeting after band practice, Emma calls everyone in to talk about the band’s decisions.

                                    Emma’s heard of copyright as a tool to protect the band’s creative work, but recently Emma has heard of this thing called a federal trademark, and she is not certain how that works.

                                    Luckily, Emma has an aunt who is also an intellectual property lawyer. Emma invites Auntie Donna Brown®️ to a Zoom meeting to discuss the band’s options with them.

                                    Auntie Donna is the business strategist and IP attorney you never knew you needed. She shows up to support these creators and helps them understand how to use federal trademarks as a strategy to avoid leaving “any money on the table!” Okay, so there is not a real table in this hypothetical, but you see where I’m going with this. Auntie Donna Brown®️ spends the next hour consulting with the band, explaining the benefits of registering a few federal trademarks — how it is not just brand protection, but also a monetization strategy.

                                    Trademark

                                    By obtaining a federal trademark for their band name, “The Night Lights,” Emma and her bandmates establish exclusive rights to the use of that name in connection with their musical services. This trademark ensures that no one else can use a similar name, which could cause confusion in the marketplace.

                                    Because the band has built a community and it has a known brand name, Auntie Donna points out to Emma that there is an additional monetization opportunity.

                                    Licensing Merchandise

                                    Emma and her bandmates can license their trademarked band name for use on merchandise such as t-shirts, hoodies, caps, and other apparel. They can collaborate with manufacturers and distributors to create high-quality products that showcase their band name prominently. Fans can proudly wear these merchandise items, helping to promote the band and create a sense of connection and community among their fan base.

                                    Posters and Artwork

                                    The band can license their trademarked band name for use on posters, album covers, and other promotional artwork. This allows them to create visually appealing designs incorporating their band name, album titles, and song lyrics. Fans can purchase these posters and artwork to decorate their spaces, further spreading the band’s brand and creating a visual representation of their music.

                                    Image Trademark

                                    In addition to the word mark trademark for their band name, “The Night Lights,” Emma and her bandmates may also consider securing an image trademark. This image trademark can be a distinctive logo, symbol, or artwork associated with the band. Here’s how the image trademark can enhance their licensing and merchandising opportunities:

                                    The band can release limited edition merchandise items that showcase the image trademark. These collectibles can include special edition vinyl records, signed posters, or unique merchandise items only available for a limited time. Fans who are avid collectors will be particularly drawn to these exclusive items, further strengthening their connection to the band.

                                    By combining the power of a word mark trademark for their band name and an image trademark for their visual identity, Emma and “The Night Lights” can leverage licensing and merchandising opportunities to generate additional revenue, promote their brand, and establish a deeper connection with their fans.

                                    The Importance of Protection from Infringement in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

                                    A federal trademark can provide an indie artist with a solution to stop AI-generated sampling of their work in the following ways:

                                    By registering a federal trademark for their artist name or logo, the indie artist establishes a distinctive brand identity that is legally protected. This trademark serves as a clear indicator of the artist’s originality and creativity, making it easier to recognize and differentiate their work from others, including AI-generated samples.

                                    With federal trademark registration, the indie artist gains exclusive rights to use their trademark in connection with their music. This means they have the legal authority to prevent others, including AI algorithms or developers, from using their trademark without permission. If an AI-generated sample infringes upon its trademark, the artist can take legal action to enforce their rights and stop unauthorized usage.

                                    With a registered federal trademark, the indie artist can send cease and desist letters to individuals or organizations using AI-generated samples that infringe upon their trademark. These letters formally request the cessation of unauthorized usage and may serve as a warning before pursuing further legal action.

                                    If the unauthorized use of AI-generated samples continues despite the artist’s cease-and-desist efforts, they can pursue legal remedies. This may involve filing a lawsuit against the infringing party, seeking injunctions to stop the usage, and potentially claiming damages for the unauthorized use of their trademarked work.

                                    Monitoring and Addressing Infringements to Safeguard Your Creative Works

                                    While copyright and trademark registration provide essential foundations for protection, it is equally important to monitor potential infringements. Regularly conduct online and offline searches for unauthorized use of your work. This can be a daunting task and is a service that can be outsourced to a professional.

                                    Keep a watchful eye on music streaming platforms, social media channels, live performances, and merchandise to detect any attempts to exploit your creations without permission.

                                    Enforcement Actions: Cease and Desist

                                    Upon investing your time and money in registering a federal trademark, you gain some tools to use against copycats infringing on your property. One of the more common tools is known as a cease and desist letter. It essentially puts the thief on notice that you are aware of their actions, and it includes a demand to cease the infringement and provide compensation for the unauthorized use of your intellectual property (IP), or risk facing further legal action.

                                    In the case of our hypothetical band above, the scenario might look like the following:

                                    Once again, it is best to consult with an IP lawyer before launching and building out your brands, just as Emma did with her band, as well as when a threat arises that requires action. The last recourse would be to pursue legal remedies, in which case you can take the registered trademark to court to prove your case.

                                    It’s important to keep in mind that the foregoing facts were merely hypothetical and designed to help you understand how intellectual property works. It is recommended that you seek advice to create your own strategy for your IP to amplify revenue and protect against copycats. Whether you call Aubtie Donna Brown®️ or not, it’s up to you. But just remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Meaning once you create your next big creation, put some thought into it and explore strategies for your band.

                                    This is Auntie Donna Brown®️, and I’m done talking.

                                    *Disclaimer: None of the foregoing should be construed as legal advice; each situation should be considered on a case-by-case basis. All examples are based on federal copyright and trademark laws.

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