Priorities

For those of us, like me, who have many interests, it can be difficult to prioritize. As an example, my undergraduate and graduate degrees are in very different areas. I have interests in volunteering and making money, war and peace, music and science, traveling and having a secure home base.

It's partly my age, partly my personality, but while I want to succeed at everything I do, being interested in and trying so many things makes that difficult.

Some people will advise musicians that they need to put away all else and focus on reaching their dreams. Others will tell them they're naive, or that they need to focus on more serious lines of work.

Whatever anyone tells you, don't let their priorities become your priority. You were put on this earth for a reason, and in this body, mind and heart for a reason, and you have something to say and a song to sing that no one has before.

I beg of you, if you are in an early stage of your career, mid-stage and ready for a change, or even retired and wondering your next steps, be strong enough to go your own path even if it's the harder and more uncertain one. You will not regret it.

Prioritize what makes you happy, and the rest will follow.