Don't shoot the breeze about it....BE ABOUT IT!!!

In an industry like hip-hop production and urban music, image and reputation is everything. Most people in this industry (or that want to get in it) have a desire to be admired, or looked up to. The main problem with the previous sentence and mentality is that most want it for the wrong reason. It requires legitimate effort to be top-dog and for it to count in peoples minds.  Presenting yourself to be something you aren't is a foolish way to gain a following. So many artist mindlessly speak and sing about things simply to "fit in" and its really lame. In my feild of producing most try their best to make themselves seem major when they are minor at best. People can tell real from fake your best bet is to be yourself...work hard and things will come to you. You won't have to front like the rest once you play hard and earn some ground in your endeavors. Don't rush and "want" for things... Work FOR them instead. Truth is, by the time you reach your goals the same people who were fronting and lying to boost their image will still be doing the same routine.....you don't want to taint your success by having history as being a fake. It's not worth it...#Realtalk

Measuring your success

So far we have discussed methods to achieve success and successful habits. One key ingredient in your pursuits should be periodically stopping and measuring what you have achieved thus far.  Measuring your progress is the great equalizer in determining if you are on the right track.  It works for universities and training programs around the world, why not your business plan? When I first started making beats I had goals I set for myself and regularly looked at my progress and said "I'm not there yet".  Don't get down on your efforts if you have fallen short so far, instead use that information to motivate yourself to do more. Not only is this an effective way to see your progress but it can also let you know when you need to adjust your plan accordingly.  When you lay it all out and look over your progress toward your goal, where are you?  Be sure to count all accomplishments and goals met.  I think once you begin to do this regularly it will help you stay focused and give you indicators that you are either on track, off-track or on the wrong train all together.    

--- Joey Cutless