Fear often appears right when we begin to take ourselves seriously. When we stop treating music like a hobby or a someday project and start building the systems, skills, and confidence that move us forward.
Thatâs when the doubts get loud, not because youâre doing it wrong, but because youâre finally doing it right.
Throughout the five stages of music career growth I outline in my Musicianâs Profit Path framework, this theme of fear never really disappears. It just evolves.
At the Foundation Stage, fear tells you that youâre not ready to be visible. Youâre still building your brand, your voice, your audience. And showing up at all feels scary. But that fear means you care about doing it well, and that matters.
In the Promotion Stage, itâs about putting yourself out there more boldly, asking for the sale, booking better shows, sharing your music widely. Fear can convince you to shrink back, but that moment is actually the one that calls you to step up.
As you move into Expansion, itâs not uncommon to feel overwhelmed or exhausted. Fear may tell you to slow down or give up altogether. But whatâs really happening is that youâre bumping into the edge of what your current systems can support. That discomfort is simply a cue to bring in help, not retreat.
Even when you start Automation and building more sustainable income streams, fear might suggest youâre being too business-minded and losing your creative mojo or that youâre not âbigâ enough for that kind of strategy. But choosing to treat your music career with that level of intention is what makes it sustainable in the first place.
And finally, in the Profession Stage, fear can creep in through imposter syndrome. Youâve come this far, and yet the question becomes whether you can maintain it. Thatâs natural. But now youâve built the tools and experience to answer that fear with truth and momentum.
The presence of fear at any stage isnât something to get rid of. Itâs something to notice.
Itâs your signal that you are reaching for something more aligned, more visible, more honest.
So the next time that fear rises upâbefore a show, before a release, before an email youâre nervous to sendâI want you to ask yourself, what if this fear means Iâm finally taking myself seriously?
If the answer is yes, then keep going. That means youâre doing the real work. The meaningful work. The kind that leads to growth, fulfillment, and connection.
Iâm proud of you for being in it. And Iâm here with you every step.
Always in your corner,
â<3 Bree
***This Friday newsletter is created for Female Artists & Advocates, and focuses on our mission to amplify quality music by Female Artists & Female-Fronted Bands in all genres and help them build a thriving music career and solid business. If you'd like to unsubscribe from FEM Fridays but still receive our regular Wednesday Profitable Musician Newsletter, click here and we'll note your preference.
