I was reading a post by Chris Brogan, who challenged the notion of traditional resolutions, and the negativity that is often behind them, even if we're not consciously aware of their negative "baggage." "Lose 15 more pounds" is an obvious one. But "do more yoga" could easily be a thinly disguised "lose 15 more pounds," particularly if yoga isn't something for which you have a passion. Chris instead suggests that we create our goals from a place of strength, building on our successes from the previous year. This really resonated with me personally, since I've been told on occasion that I work from that defensive, pessimistic posture WAY too often. It's something I've been consciously working on, and I'd like to think I've made some progress.
It was with Chris' post on my mind when I was working on my egregiously messy inbox (on my resolution list, btw) and I re-read Alyson Stanfield's timely newsletter on much the same thing, but from the artist's point of view. Alyson came up with a great list of actionable items to help you build on your past successes and drive your art career forward in 2008.
My ten favourites on her list include:
- How will you promote your art consistently?
- What will you do to amplify your online presence?
- What technological skills do you need to learn or improve?
- What medium or skill will you attempt or master?
- What will you try that is completely new?
- What have you been procrastinating because it's uncomfortable, but you know it will be good for you?
- How will you improve your studio habits?
- What seminars/workshops/lectures will you attend?
- What galleries, exhibits, or other venues will you submit your art to?
- What is the single thing you can do in 2008 that will move your career ahead the fastest?
(Alyson's full list can be found in at ArtBizCoach.com)
I can tell you one of EBSQ's resolutions: to help you figure out some answers to those questions. I think it's fairly safe to say that you'll be seeing some articles and conversations revolving around that list in the coming year. We want to bring you new tools, new ways to share what you learn, and new opportunities to get your art out there. Last year, our internal focus was on learning. This year we are dedicated to innovation and breathing life into so many of the great ideas that have come to the table. In short, the world begins anew.
Here's to another fantastic year, EBSQers. Cheers!
Amie Gillingham
1 January 2008
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