If you joined in with the Artisan Advantage Book Club and finished The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People® I hope that you were able to learn something new to apply to your art business. There was a lot to digest, so I thought I would give you a bit longer to read it.
One response that I received about the book I think sums it up well.
What I am enjoying most, is this book is NOT a “quick fix” that is very popular in the business/marketing information that is out there these days because it deals with the person, which means it will have an effect on the artist’s entire business, as the artist is his/her business.
With respect specifically to a visual art business, here are some takeaways that came to my mind.
Takeaways
Be Proactive. How can you take responsibility for your art business? Make sure that you are acting proactively vs. reactively as you plan and work.
Begin With the End in Mind. Do you have a clear written vision for your art business? If not, this should be a priority. Once it’s written, make sure that your actions are aligning with your vision. Review this vision on a regular basis to ensure you stay on track.
Put first things first. Are you focusing on activities that are bringing you closer to your vision for your art business? Can you discern between the urgent but not important versus the important but not urgent tasks? Can you identify busy work that really isn’t getting you where you need to get to?
Think Win-Win. Whether it’s a collaborative project or participating in an event with an artist organization, can you work to build relationships by finding solutions and agreements that benefit everyone involved?
Seek first to understand…Are you taking time to listen to clients and customers before moving ahead with a commission or project?
Synergize. Can you find ways to participate, contribute and interact with your community?
Sharpen the Saw. Is there balance in your business and personal life? Make sure you are taking time out for other hobbies, family, exercise whatever it is you need to maintain your overall health and relationships in the long run.
Find more Franklin Covey resources at www.franklincovey.com. If you haven’t had a chance to read the book, that’s ok. There are no rules are requirements for the Book Club! I encourage you to read at your own pace. Take what you need, lose what you don’t.
I’d always love to hear your thoughts or a book recommendation at becky@artisan-advantage.com.
March’s book pick will be announced tomorrow. In the meantime, sign up for my newsletter here. I randomly select one subscriber every month to receive a free copy of the book for that month.
