unsuccessful creatives share this one thing
The least successful creatives all have one thing in common.
They’re selfish.
I've spent A LOT of time around creative people; at my performing arts high school, in my college acting program, and throughout my professional career.
From the many hours spent around these artists, I’ve learned that most people create for themselves.
The last person they consider is their audience.
This leads to movies that are too long, novels stuffed to the brim with fluff, and paintings so abstract they make you nauseous.
“But Matt, if I create solely for others I won’t be fulfilled in my work.”
This is an amateur mindset. The professional artist knows that true fulfillment comes from serving others.
Once you learn how to deliver value to your audience, you can use your artistry to package that value in an interesting way.
Create for your audience.
Edit for yourself.