I’m fortunate (if not blessed) to interact with a broad range of crazy, creative, genius clients every week. Some are extremely wealthy, while others are just getting by—just the same, all of them go through hard times. And what I notice is that while it’s true that money, whether you have too much or too little, can often be a contributing factor in stalling or pausing a worthwhile project or career, it’s also nevertheless true that the persistent, unwavering, constant stream of innovative ideas, visions and solutions cannot be stopped by the crush of financial calamity or even the sudden set-back of distressing circumstances. And for most creatives, that streaming download of bright ideas never stops—and in fact can often be a life-saver!
Social media is filled with compelling stories of rich and famous artists & entrepreneurs who are buried deep with money problems and personal crisis. Yet the best of them rise up from the ashes and often do their very best creative work—even while their personal lives are spinning out of control in a whirlwind of upset and turmoil. How do you think those artists & treps can remain focused and work at the top of their game with all that personal distraction going on? They have somehow figured out a way to leave all that drama outside the door: when they enter the studio, walk on the set, pick up the brush, stand in front of the camera, stare down at the keyboard, or call the staff meeting to order. Some talk it out with a coach, others hire a therapist, while others take their problems directly into their daily meditation (few handle it themselves). The method itself doesn’t matter. What matters is that they find a way—because they have to. That’s what separates the haves from the have-nots—the courage and fortitude to just “do the work” and relentlessly go for their dreams and goals, even in the face of adversity.
And while it’s true that during hard times we often feel like we’re alone, out of control and losing ground, it is also nevertheless true that it’s during those hard times the hero within rises up to take charge of the situation, and lead the way. However, it’s up to us to drum up the courage to follow.
“If it wasn’t for the bad luck, I wouldn’t have no luck at all.” —William Bell