To busk or not to busk

[missroserose]

Between the lack-of-work situation and some fairly large expenses that have cropped up recently (hello, medical bills that go so far beyond ridiculous as to be sublime!), I'm starting to seriously look at my options with finding another job, even just a low-paying part-time gig. Thing is, it's nearly the end of tourist season here, so I doubt many folk will be hiring, and I don't always have the transport to get to Sierra Vista. (Not to mention exactly how much the gas costs inherent to a 60-mile round-trip commute eat into your part-time paycheck.)

It's occurred to me more than once that I could take up busking - I have a (small) repertoire at this point, and God knows I could use the performing practice. I also have a list of reasons not to - or really, excuses - about a mile long. It's getting to be hot outside. Tourist season is almost over. There aren't that many people around anyway. I wouldn't make enough to make it worth my time. I can only play about half an hour before my chording hand starts to hurt. I only really know maybe five songs well enough to perform. If I got bored of them and tried something new I might make mistakes in front of people. Hell, I might make mistakes on the ones I do know. Not to mention people might laugh at me for busking with a $1400 guitar.

I think it was my mother that told me once that the best road to achieving your dreams was to take the course of action that made you think of the most reasons not to do it. If that's true, I should be making a livable wage on my music...oh, about three days after I start busking. :P

Comments

[peacefulleigh]

Your excuses contradict one another. You might make mistakes in front of people, but there aren't any people. Ha! I say it can't hurt to do a little busking in your spare time. But I'd consider it performance practice, not an income-generator, so you don't get your feelings hurt and so there's no such thing as "not worth my time" because practicing is always worth your time. :)

[missroserose]

Hey, there's a reason I labeled these "excuses" and not "rational reasons to refrain". Insecurities are only rarely in alignment with rationality. Or, in many cases, reality. :)