Being an indie artist takes work. It takes time, dedication, and hard work to make it in this industry. And if you're also working a day job or going to school, it can be even more challenging to find the time and energy to focus on your music career.

But it's not impossible!

It's essential to prioritize your music and make time for it in whatever way you can as an indie artist. That might mean waking up an hour earlier each day to write or record or cutting back on your social activities to free up more time for music-making. However, the primary way to succeed as an indie artist is to prioritize time, network, and find funding.

In this blog post, we will discuss various ways that you can maximize your time and still make progress in your music career. We will also discuss how to find money to help support your dreams of becoming a successful indie artist. So read for advice and tips to help you achieve your musical goals!

How to Manage Being an Indie Artist With a Job or School

You may need more time as an indie artist if you work a full-time job. However, you can still work hard to achieve your dreams! Below, we'll walk you through tips to help you manage working and music.

1. Learn How to Prioritize Your Time

One of the most important things to remember when balancing a day job and your music career is prioritizing your time. This may mean that you need to set aside some evenings or weekends to focus on your music or even cut down on hours at your day job to make time for your creative pursuits.

Most day jobs require a 9-5 job, leaving the rest of your day to work on music. Consider using this time to schedule your social media posts, network with other artists, or develop new song ideas.

On average, indie artists spend at least one to two hours daily working on their music. If you can manage your time effectively and make the most of your limited free time, you can still progress in your music career, even while working a day job or attending school.

2. Network With Musicians and Industry Professionals

Building relationships with other artists and industry professionals who can help you along the way is critical to succeeding in the music industry. This may mean attending local shows or events, joining online music communities, or even reaching out to friends and family for advice and feedback.

We suggest using social media and online platforms like SoundCloud, YouTube, and Facebook to connect with other musicians and industry professionals. These tools can help you build your network, gain exposure to your music, and find opportunities to collaborate with other artists.

The average indie artist spends at least a few hours per week networking, either online or in person. By taking advantage of the many tools and platforms available, you can build meaningful relationships with other musicians and industry experts and increase your chances of success in the music world.

3. Find Crowdfunding Platforms or Other Funding Sources to Support Your Music Career

Networking is also a great way to find opportunities for financial support, such as crowdfunding, investors, or sponsorship deals. By building solid relationships with others in the music industry, you can gain access to valuable resources that can help you achieve your musical goals.

Whether you need money for equipment, recording time, marketing efforts, or other musical pursuits, many different funding options can help make your goals a reality. Some popular crowdfunding platforms include Kickstarter and Indiegogo. Still, there are also funding opportunities like grants and loans that you may want to explore.

4. Set Goals and Stay Motivated

One of the most important things to remember when balancing a day job and your music career is to set specific and measurable goals. This may mean creating a music marketing plan, scheduling time to write new songs, or prioritizing the tasks that will help you make the most progress in your career.

It is also essential to stay motivated and focused on your goals, even when things get difficult or stressful. Whether you turn to meditation, journaling, or other self-care activities, taking care of yourself is key to maintaining a healthy work-life balance and staying on track in your music career.

5. Manage the Emotional Stress That Comes With Balancing Two Careers

Finally, it is essential to remember that there will be days when your day job and your music career feel stressful or challenging. Managing the emotional stress that comes with this balancing act can be difficult.

Still, it is essential to do what you can to take care of yourself and maintain your well-being. This might mean taking a break from your music career for a while or finding a supportive community of musicians who understand what you are going through.

Never let your 9-5 stop you from working on your creative passion. However, make sure you find the right balance so that you can keep the lights on.

Day Job and Indie Artist FAQs

How can I make the most of my limited time when working a day job and pursuing my music career?

One key strategy for managing your time is to create a detailed schedule or plan for your day. This might involve setting specific goals or tasks you want to accomplish each day and finding ways to streamline your work processes and avoid distractions.

Consider outsourcing specific tasks or projects, such as booking shows or hiring a marketing consultant. This can help you make the most of your time and focus on the aspects of your music career that are most important to you.

What tips for networking with other musicians and industry professionals while working a day job?

One effective strategy is using online platforms and tools like SharePro, SoundCloud, YouTube, or Facebook. These tools can help you connect with other musicians, promote your music, and build valuable relationships.

In addition to online networking, you may also want to attend industry events, such as conferences or meetups. This can help you build your network and forge new connections in the music world.

How can I find funding for my music career aside from crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter or Indiegogo?

One option is to explore grants and other funding sources specifically targeted toward musicians and artists. This may involve researching organizations or programs in your area and preparing an application that clearly articulates your goals and needs.

Another strategy is to reach out directly to potential investors or partners interested in supporting your music career. This might involve sending a cold email or creating an online profile that describes your music and goals in more detail. Whatever approach you choose, it is crucial to be persistent and patient in finding funding for your music career.

Indie Artist's & Day Jobs

Overall, if you are passionate about your music and committed to working hard to achieve your goals, you can successfully balance being an indie artist with a day job or school. By prioritizing your time, networking with other musicians, and seeking funding opportunities, you can give your music career the attention it deserves while maintaining other vital aspects of your life.

Best of luck on your musical journey!