Starting the artistic path, or any significant endeavor, takes some bravery. It’s normal to feel nervous, grappling with ego and insecurity. But bravery is that initial push, the courage to step beyond your comfort zone. Every time you put your work out there, it gets a little easier, and you find the bliss of confidence.

True confidence means you’re not afraid to be foolish or afraid of failure. Instead, every misstep becomes a learning opportunity, a chance to grow.

However, we must consider a cautionary tale. No artist, employee, or creator should be forced to be courageous just to show up to work, especially due to toxic producers, bosses, managers, directors, or even peers. The goal should be to create psychological safety, a place where everyone can thrive, grow, and do their best work free of fear.

Remember: most people that struggle with ego and insecurity learned to be afraid because of another’s ego and insecurity, or a world of it. When we strive as a community to move past that pettiness, the fear of the unknown, and the fear of failure, we achieve amazing things!