Growing
Knowing and being changed are two completely different things. We don't change just because we "know" something or think we have learned something. We must apply what we learn!Our growth as authentic artists must focus on 2 areas:
- our skill or craftsmanship
- our heart and walk with God
Of course, there are a million small decisions along the way, but here are 3 major decisions you need to regularly make in order to keep growing. Decide daily to:
- Engage in personal disciplines and obedience
- Have a coach, mentor or accountable relationship
- Have an authentic community
Resources:
Books on Artistic Growth:
The Authentic Musician - Ebook for free - contact me
Talent Is Never Enough: Discover the Choices That Will Take You Beyond Your Talent by John C. Maxwell
Art And the Bible: Two Essays (Ivp Classics) by Francis Schaeffer
Culture Making: Recovering Our Creative Calling by Andy Crouch
14 sites to help you practice more effectively - for musicians
Books on Spiritual Growth
The Heart of the Artist by Rory Noland
The Call - Os Guiness
The Search for Significance - Robert McGee
The Pressure’s Off - Larry Crabb
The Purpose Driven Life - Rick Warren
Waking the Dead - John Eldridge
Unexplainable: Pursuing a Life Only God Can Make Possible - Don Cousins
I Choose to Forgive - Diane Collard
The Bible online: YouVersion
Take the next Step!
Growth is made up of a series of small steps. Whether you're just beginning as an Artist/Christian, or have pursued growth for many years, the key to further growth is always to take the next step.How do you know what the next step is?
1. Asses where you are.
2. Discern where you want to be in the long-term and short-term.
3. Make a strategic plan that will work. Set S.M.A.R.T.E.R. short-term goals. (thank you, Michael Hyatt)
- Specific: Identify exactly what you want to accomplish
- Measurable: Quantify the result.
- Actionable: Start with an action verb, not a to-be verb.
- Realistic: Recognize and implement the power of incremental change over time.
- Time-Bound: Set a specific deadline.
- Exciting: Make your goals personally compelling.
- Relevant: Make sure your goals are appropriate to the season of your life.
4. Implement the plan. Visit your short-term goals daily.
5.Don't expect perfection. You will face failure, but make the best of it. Pick yourself up and get back in step!