💡✍️ADN #136: Take Yourself Seriously Before Anyone Else Will

adn136 artist development artist development newsletter consistency work work ethic Jun 22, 2025

Nobody will believe in you harder than you believe in yourself.
Nobody will prioritize you until you prioritize yourself.
Nobody will respect your work if you treat it like a hobby.

You set the tone.

If you show up late for yourself,
If you delay your deadlines,
If you half-commit to your dreams, the world will match that energy.

Success doesn’t chase the most talented.
It chases the ones who act like they’re already building something real.

The world doesn’t know talent if it can’t see it.

The world does notice determination and progress when it keeps showing up.

Be the constant reminder that you are out fighting for your seat at the table.

SYSTEM: Set the Standard You Want Reflected Back

Take yourself seriously first.

The world follows your energy.

Hold yourself to real deadlines even when nobody’s waiting.

Self-respect compounds.

Respect your time, like you would a friend.

You are your first fan.

Invest before anyone asks you to.

In your work, your learning, and your presentation.

CHECKLIST

❑ Are you treating your work like a priority or a side hustle?
❑ Are you showing up focused, clear, and prepared for your goals?
❑ Are you investing in yourself like you expect this to work?

If not, you’re signaling uncertainty before anyone else even has a chance to decide for themselves.

REMEMBER

The world mirrors the energy you bring.
Serious work starts with serious commitment.

Don’t wait to be taken seriously.

Earn it daily.

ACTION STEPS:

Pick one way to upgrade how you treat your work.

Act this month like you already have the audience, the respect, and the opportunities you want.

When tempted to slack, remember that your long-term goals are more important than your immediate feelings.

The world won’t know the artist you are until you show them.

See you next Sunday -

Neil

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