July 17, 2006

"THERE ARE TWO TYPES OF PEOPLE -- ANCHORS AND MOTORS.
You want to lose the anchors and get with the motors because the motors are going somewhere and they're having more fun. The anchors will just drag you down."
                                                                                     --Wyland, marine artist

Ain't that the truth?! Success is hard enough when you're working on your own. Who needs anchors that get in the way?

Everyone comes across anchors, which might be disguised as a friend, acquaintance, or a family member. They're the ones who express doubt: "Now, Sally, don't expect too much from this show. The economy is really bad and this is your first exhibit." Or, "That's a great hobby you have, but I don't know anyone who is making a living as an artist."

The motivation behind the anchors is perplexing. Are they jealous of your creative freedom? Do they always walk around with a black cloud over their heads? Or are they just buying into the stereotypes and trying to "save" you from the hard life of an artist? Regardless, they seem to be self-centered and oblivious to your serious pursuits.

In my Art Marketing Action Circles, we use Jack Canfield's book "The Success Principles" as a basis for our discussions. His 25th Principle is "Drop Out of the 'Ain't it Awful' Club... and Surround Yourself with Successful People." He says, "Avoid toxic people," continuing: "You're better off spending time alone than spending time with people who will hold you back with their victim mentality and their mediocre standards.

"Make a conscious effort to surround yourself with positive, nourishing, and uplifting people--people who believe in you, encourage you to go after your dreams, and applaud your victories. Surround yourself with possibility thinkers, idealists, and visionaries."

Canfield also notes, "You become like the people you spend time with." What would you rather be? An anchor? Or a motor?

Find six types of anchors you'll want to avoid on the Art Biz Blog.