People get good gigs because they stand up....You don't get picked. Reject the tyranny of picked. Pick yourself.

You can listen to what people say, sure. But you will be far more effective if you listen to what people do.

The problem with putting it all on the line is that it might not work out. The problem with not putting it all on the line is that it will never (ever) change things for the better. Not much of a choice, I think.

Now for the first time, you can choose yourself. You can be responsible for what you do and how you do it. You have to do the hard work of finding and pleasing an audience.

One bad review doesn't ruin my day because I realize what a badge of honor it is to get a bit of criticism at all.

You don't make art after you become an artist. You become an artist by ceaselessly making art.

Do your art. But don't wreck your art if it doesn't lend itself to paying the bills. That would be a tragedy.