Resolution Revolution: 5 Tips for Creating and Sticking to Your Game Audio Goals
It's a new year, and that means it's time to set some goals and make some resolutions, right?
If you're a sound designer or composer in the world of video games, you know how important it is to stay on top of your craft.
But let's be real.
It's easy to make resolutions and much harder to stick to them.
With that sad fact in mind, here are five tips to help you create and stick to your new year's goals.
Cue the generic "happy new year" stock photo.
Tip #1: Make Your Goals Specific and Measurable
It's easy to get overwhelmed by big, abstract goals like "become a better sound designer."
Instead, try setting specific, measurable goals that you can work towards and clearly recognize when they are completed.
This could be something like "create a piece of music using one new VST library" or "complete a 30-second redesign every week."
Step by step.
Having clear, defined goals will help you stay motivated and make tracking your progress obvious.
Tip #2: Create a Plan and Schedule
Now that you have your goals in place, it's time to create a plan and schedule to help you achieve them.
Break your goals down into smaller, more manageable tasks and schedule them into your calendar.
No... not like this.
This will give you a roadmap to follow and help you stay on track.
There's a reason why nearly all ultra-successful people have a religious dedication to their calendar.
Tip #3: Find Accountability and Support
It's much easier to stick to your goals when you have someone to hold you accountable.
Consider finding a mentor or accountability partner to help keep you motivated and on track.
You can also join a community or group of like-minded individuals who can offer support and encouragement along the way.
Teamwork worked for the turtles, it can work for you.
There are lots of Discord and Slack channels out there for this, but they are often full and not very personal.
I recommend creating or joining a mastermind group.
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Tip #4: Stay Flexible
Life has a way of throwing curveballs, and it's important to be flexible and adaptable when it comes to your goals.
If you find that something isn't working or you need to pivot in a different direction, don't be afraid to adjust your plan.
Maybe not this flexible, but you get what I mean.
The important thing is to keep moving forward and not get discouraged!
Tip #5: Celebrate Your Victories and Progress
Finally, don't forget to celebrate your victories and progress along the way!
Whether it's completing that redesign or reaching a milestone in your career, take the time to acknowledge your achievements and give yourself a pat on the back.
You did good kid, you did good.
This will help keep you motivated and keep you going through the inevitable ups and downs of working on yourself and your future.
Takeaway
The start of a new year means it's time to toss out the old and ring in the new, especially when it comes to your game audio goals.
Dreaming big is great but don't let your dreams stay dreams.
Make them your reality!
“What the new year brings to you will depend a great deal on what you bring to the new year.”
Vern McLellan
By following the tips in this article, I hope you'll make this new year your best yet!
So let's make some noise in 2023!
I created The Game Audio Pro with the goal of helping others understand the fundamental business skills that are often the difference between success and failure for freelancers.
If you're ready to take your game audio career to the next level, download my guide to The Most Important Mindset for Game Audio Success.