Thin people don't skip meals. You get too hungry if you go too long between meals, and then you gorge.
Success in business is achieved the same way--through constant, regular effort.
If we go too long without some sort of feedback, or success, or without the security of knowing our strengths and our limits, then it gets overwhelmingly tempting to "gorge"--to jump into a major show we aren't ready for, or spurge on a huge ad without careful thought, or spending big bucks on support materials without thinking how we intend to use them or update them.
Experimentation, trial and error--this is what it takes to develop a new product, test it in the marketplace, and see if it's really what people will want and buy. How many times have I stayed up all night developing a "great new idea" I'm SURE will be a hot seller at the show--only to find it's not? That energy may be great for jumpstarting our creative juices, but if it drains us for the show or we build our hopes too high for it to "make" the show, it would be better to just get a little more sleep. Or just to go over my packing list again.
Preparedness--If we have our promotional materials on hand--photos of new work, jury slides ready, a FAQ sheet--then when the media comes calling, or a good show appears on our horizon, we don't have to go into a frenzy trying to get new slides or pull together a press kit at the last minute.
Perseverence--This is what it takes to develop a following, and a market for your work. You have to stay the course, stay visible, and stay focused on your long-term goals.
Daily affirmations, commitment and belief in what you're doing--This is what it takes to persevere, even when it seems like nothing's really working.
Taking account--Making note of the small victories as they come--getting into that show you only dreamed of years ago, getting coverage of that magazine you targeted in your business plan, noting that your biggest sale at your last show is what you once made in an entire year.... Going too long without these little "attaboys!" and pats-on-the-back will take the joy out of what you do.
Remember that no one thing will make your business, and no one thing will break it, either.
