There is a wealth of research that indicates that certain habits can help increase your productivity, creativity, and/or drive. So, we thought we’d reach out to respected members of our community and ask them what habits they feel helped them succeed.

Tim Ketenjian

Balance – Finding balance in life is important for everyone, but especially for performers. In order to sing well on Friday, I must take care of my body on Tuesday. I need to make time to practice, but I also need time to relax. I want to be comfortable enough with my music so it flows out of me easily; however, I don’t want to overthink it to the point where it loses joy and wonder. The balance of life differs for each person. Find the tools you need to perform well, and the tools you need to rest well. You don’t have to say yes to everything; say yes to things that matter to you. Read More>>

Natalie Alvarado

I come from a family of resilient, hard-working women. My grandma was a seamstress who also sold Avon, and after my father passed away when I was one, my mom stepped up to support us on her own. By late elementary school, I was helping run one of my uncle’s corner stores — managing inventory, placing orders, and working the register. In high school, I waitressed at another uncle’s taquería and helped my neighbor sell silver jewelry. Throughout college, I always held part-time to full-time jobs — even during my year abroad in Italy. Read More>>

Antonio Rumie

It seems long overdue, but honestly, taking care of yourself is one of the most powerful habits I’ve developed—well, started to develop. I haven’t mastered it, but it’s a muscle we tend to overlook, even though it’s crucial to succeeding.

As artists, we face rejection, instability, and plenty of days where nothing seems certain. But when the moment finally comes to shine, we must be ready, focused and most importantly- ourselves. Read More>>