Whenever I am sure that I've got my business plan secured, it seems that a great opportunity comes along, jumbles my plans and thoughts and throws me into chaotic confusion.

For example, during the last week, two galleries and one workshop location have expressed interest in my work. Both galleries are well known and carry significantly successful artists. If I say yes to any one of these offers, I will need to rethink my entire business and time management plans. 

Is it better to “just say no” and go about my business as previously planned, or shall I take on new responsibilities that may take my painting career to new heights?

New Opportunities Bring Additional Stress

I am fully aware that “new heights” also brings about “new stress”. While I love living in the artistic lime light, one of my main business objectives is to experience success while keeping my stress levels at a minimum. Stress needs to remain at lower levels so that I can tune into my right brained creative side on a daily basis.

While some of my artist friends own gobs of energy and seem to juggle multiple responsibilities with ease, I admit that I have always struggled with fatigue. I exercise, eat right (along with steady diet of ice-cream) and do all that I can to improve my stamina, but to no avail. I've needed a lot of sleep since childhood. It's obviously in my genetic makeup to wear out easily. In the past, I've taken on too many galleries and was not able to supply them adequately. It would be downright foolish to assume that things are going to any different now.

My First Passion is Definitely Writing About Living The Artist's Life, and all that entails.

Over the past year, I've come to the conclusion that my first passion is writing art related blogs and articles. I'm happiest when I feel like I'm contributing. My secondary passion is painting, so I will continue to paint, but I'll need to be careful about how many promises I make and to whom.

The Secret to Success is to Own a Primary Focus

The fact remains that we artists only have so much time in a day or week or year. Focus and excellence in one activity leads to success – I know that all too well, and yet I am so flattered by new opportunities. Additionally, I need to consider how I'll make a living at whatever I choose to do as my primary work.

One thing I know for sure: I will need to curb my time on social media. Instead of mindlessly meandering around forums and networks, I'll put a specific plan in place for how and when I'll participate.

I will continue to write for Clint Watson's blog here for sure! Wouldn't give this up for practically anything! Recently, I turned down an offer to do an art marketing webinar for 300 – 500 artists, because it didn't fit into my current business focus. I still feel pretty good about that decision.

The big question: Do I take on the responsibility of supplying galleries again while continuing with my writing career? The bigger plan for this summer is get started on my ebooks, and "tips from the Maestro" - things I've learned from Schmid and others. Deciding to paint for galleries could put these cherished goals on the back burner. However, there's a slight chance that if I handle my time well, I could do both writing and painting, but I'll need to begin a super efficient lifestyle - no goofing off.

I could use some feedback from you all out there in cyberspace. Can't promise that I'll use any or all of your advice, but I'm willing to listen. After all, most of you are working artists and probably understand what I'm dealing with.  Hah! Usually, I'm the one giving advice, but these things can and should go both ways. I very much appreciate this online community.

Sincerely,

Lori