5 Strong Reasons Why Awards And Fame Should Never Be Your End Goal

As an independent artist, the most important goals you should have are creating meaningful work, connecting with audiences, and building a sustainable career. Awards, accolades, and mainstream fame should never be the primary end goal or motivation for our work. Here are a few reasons why.

5. Meaning Creates Sustainability.

Focus on creating meaningful work. The work itself should be the goal and the reward. Are you making music, art, or content that means something to you and contributes value to the world in some way? If you focus on creating work that is authentic, impactful, and pushes creative boundaries, that alone leads to a successful endeavor as an artist. Awards and fame are byproducts of making great work, not the reason for doing it. Keep your priorities straight.

4. The Need For Approval Will Stunt Your Artistic Growth.

Don’t depend on the approval of others. Basing how you feel about your own work primarily on fame, awards, reviews, or the praise of critics and tastemakers is a recipe for anxiety and disappointment. As independent artists, we have the freedom to make the creative work we want without worrying about mass approval or commercial concerns. Do not give away your power by making approval and fame the markers of your self-worth or the worth of your art. Your work has value because you believe in it.

3. Real Connections Last Forever And Help Your Mental Well-being.

Connect with real fans who get it. Instead of chasing fame and celebrity, focus on building genuine connections with people who appreciate what you create. Engage with your fans, understand what your work means to them, and keep putting in the work to spread it to more people who connect with it. Real, mutually supportive connections with a dedicated fan base lead to longevity as an artist, not a flash of mainstream fame. Cultivate the relationships that sustain you for the long haul.

2. Longevity Matters More Than Fame.

A sustainable career is the goal. Awards and fame do not necessarily translate to a sustainable career. Many famous musicians, actors, and other artists still struggle to make a living from their craft. And fame is often fleeting. A sustainable career, on the other hand, means you can continue creating and sharing your work with audiences over the long run. This should be the goal, not short-lived mainstream notoriety or trophy collecting. Focus on the work, build your skills, diversify your revenue streams, and grow your support system. A sustainable career will serve you far longer.

1. Authenticity Can’t Be Replaced Or Bought.

Stay true to your vision. Chasing fame and major awards frequently means pandering to the masses and watering down your work to gain mainstream appeal. Do not sacrifice your creative vision in order to achieve more popularity, praise, or success. Always stay focused on the work itself and let your unique creative voice be the guide. Your vision is what sets you apart, so stick to it and do not worry about meeting popular demand or industry standards. Authenticity is what will set you up for lasting success.

In the end, meaningful work, strong connections, and a sustainable career should be the primary goals for independent artists. Let your creative vision and values guide you rather than a hunger for fame, awards, or status. While accolades and mainstream recognition may come in time, do not make them the end goal or let them distract you from what really matters—which is using your gifts to make a difference by spreading the work you believe in. True success and reward come from that alone. Stay focused on your deeper reasons for creating and keep sharing work that moves you with audiences who move you in return. That is the road to a career built to last as an independent artist.

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Twitter
• Spotify