August 21, 2024 - Everyone working in the arts will experience internal and external forces that cause them to doubt the wisdom of their choices from time to time. Understand this: There will always be pressure. Pressure to justify your choices to others Pressure to meet the expectations of others, including parents and family Pressure to attain (or to maintain) a certain “lifestyle” Pressure to equal or surpass the accomplishments of others Pressure to earn the respect of peers. Pressure to be cool, to be contemporary, to be new. Pressure to choose an easier way when you think the harder way is better, but no one but you will ever be able to tell the difference. Pressure to do your best when no one seems to care.   Pressure to not disappoint your mentors. Pressure to meet goals that…