How can you prioritize self-care in the music industry?

Try not to use WhatsApp for work conversations too much - keep it for personal chats only. Choose communication channels mindfully based on the purpose, participants and urgency of each exchange. Your productivity and well-being will benefit from more structured, intentional communication. Limit WhatsApp use to defined hours so you're not constantly available.

As a founder, starting a company is incredibly challenging. Add the complexity of music licensing and it's even tougher. There are 3 things that have helped me navigate music tech and keep my sanity. First, building a network of fellow founders has been invaluable. Many have expertise in areas where you are weak and can educate you. Second, recruit advisors and give them upside in your company. Advisors can help with operations, hiring, partnerships and funding - for a bit of equity, it's well worth the cost. Finally, it's important to enjoy the journey. "Success" is defined in many ways and it's not just about a big payout in the exit. It's about the learnings and process of developing into an evolving entrepreneur.

When you're working from home, the lines between work and personal life are blurred. So I make sure to put me time on the calendar, just like I would a meeting. You've got to be intentional about me time or it won't happen. I schedule workouts, hobbies etc. It keeps me energized and engaged. And it's just nice to do things I enjoy outside of work. Taking care of yourself should be a priority. Penciling in time for your health and happiness seems weird but trust me, it's a total game changer.

In my early years, I coped with stress by grabbing a drink (or a few) after work. But a few drinks add up and has negative consequences on both physically and mentally. In the brave new world of remote work where home and business life intersect almost seamlessly at times, I found it helpful to schedule personal time - workouts, breaks, meditation, etc. Block those times on your calendar like you would a meeting. No one ever seems to "have time." With family life, work commitments, social engagements, etc. I find that I have to "make time" for personal development like exercise and even hobbies. The payoffs in calendaring "me time" are amazing and can improve your physical and mental well being in profound ways.

Many moons ago, a wise person once said to me, "It's better to be interestED than interestING." Social and business events can be challenging, particularly after a long work week. Thoughts of bolstering my confidence in advance to engage others would often flood my mind prior to a gathering - perhaps the desire to be as "interestING" as possible. But after hearing the advice about being "interested" I began to focus on listening and learning rather than incessantly running my mouth. It was remarkable to learn that people love talking about themselves. If you actually take the time to listen, you might just learn something. And, by learning something by being interested, you might just end up as a pretty interesting person in the process.

The music industry is constantly evolving, so lifelong learning is essential. Stay on top of new technologies and innovations. Collaborate with those outside your discipline to gain new skills. Never stop experimenting and creating, even if just for yourself. An insatiable curiosity and willingness to step outside your comfort zone will keep your craft sharp.