Taking risks is the only way to grow.

We’ve all heard that advice and perhaps we’ve even egged our fellow musicians and creatives on in such a way, as they’ve danced with their fears of the unknown.

However, in times of big decisions – of the choice between taking the leap, or playing it safe – we often find this advice most difficult to take ourselves.

Here’s why, even in the face of fear, risk taking not only worthwhile, but necessary to our creative journeys.

Risk-taking expands our comfort zones.

As we reach beyond our comfort zones, it is inevitable that we are going to encounter uncomfortable moments and situations. We are going to be challenged to approach these scenarios in new ways, if we want to break past our previously-held barriers and find new levels of success. The consequence of staying comfortable is staying right where we are, which is not conducive to the growth of a music career.

That may mean taking a chance on submitting for new opportunities to get over a fear of rejection. It may mean focusing on building relationships, to push past the underlying causes for your shyness. It may mean taking a creative risk, such as exploring a new sound or creative concept, to take your work to the next level. All of these are opportunities to grow.

Risk-taking makes us more resourceful.

In times of comfort, it’s human nature to operate from a mindset of “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” However, with our backs against the wall, human beings have a knack for becoming resilient, resourceful creatures.

Times of discomfort bring out our true creativity, whether in our art, or the ways in which we navigate the balance between pursuing our passions and real life. When the game is on the line, your passions will reveal themselves toward you – and often, they will light the way toward a greater understanding of how to put it all together.

Risk-taking teaches us new skills.

Of course, what is newfound resourcefulness without the tools to back it up? The discomforts we encounter when taking strange, new leaps will certainly expose the areas in which we are not yet proficient. To advance on our journeys, there are new skills that we must acquire and master. The sooner we begin that work, the sooner we’ll have the ability to move forward.

Not all risks pay off – which is a good thing!

A fear of failure is one of the biggest reasons why musicians – and creatives of all types – don’t advance in their careers. But, as we’ve previously noted here on the Muze blog, the “failures” we perceive are not the end of the line… unless we choose for them to be.

Each opportunity that doesn’t pan out teaches us something about ourselves, our processes, and the areas in which we need to level up. These are not “failures,” but checkpoints along the journey that re-direct our internal compasses toward alignment with our visions. Keeping that in mind, failure should be celebrated – it brings us closer to who and what we desire to be.

Those are just a few reasons why risk-taking is beneficial toward your music career. There are plenty more reasons and resources across the internet, in case you need further convincing. Here are a few  more articles on the topic that I enjoyed reading:

Wharton School of Business
Forbes
Washington Post
LinkedIn

And, if you’re ready to join a community of risk-takers just like you, consider signing up for Muze and connecting with your fellow musicians!