How to make the most of your 5-9 as a musician working a 9-5
How to effectively balance your 9-5 job while pursuing your music career: Tips for making the most of your 5-9
In today’s world, where more people than ever have access to create a music career, the challenge of monetizing your craft as an independent artist has grown. For many musicians, this reality means balancing a full-time or part-time job alongside their music career.
While this dual commitment can be demanding, effective time management can help you thrive in both realms. Let’s explore how to make the most of your “5-9” — those precious hours after your “9-5.”
Try to maintain a balanced perspective
Before diving into tips, remember: that not every strategy will work for everyone. It’s vital to prioritize your well-being and rest as much as productivity. Life is more than just work, and burnout will only set you back in the long run.
Get to know your schedule
Take a close look at your daily and weekly routines. You might be surprised by the patterns and habits you’ve already built. For example, if you finish work at 5 PM but have a 40-minute commute, account for that time in your planning.
By understanding your schedule, you can identify pockets of time that are often overlooked — perhaps early mornings, lunch breaks, or weekends — and use them to your advantage.
Define your goals
Outline exactly what you want to achieve on a regular basis. Whether it’s practicing your instrument, writing new songs, creating content, or networking, be specific about your goals. Then, determine how much time you’d like to dedicate to each task.
Spread tasks throughout the week
Consistency beats cramming every time. Building small, sustainable habits will serve you better than trying to do everything at once. Assign manageable tasks throughout several days, ensuring your workload stays balanced.
For example, dedicating just 30 minutes a day to a specific goal can add up to significant progress by the end of the week. This approach also minimizes stress and frees you from the constant pressure of unfinished tasks.
Ideas for maximizing your time
If you’re unsure where to start, here are some practical ways to spend your 5-9:
Content creation
Dedicate an hour to filming a short practice session, a “Get Ready With Me” (GRWM) video, or any creative project. Sharing content regularly helps build your audience and keeps fans engaged.
Practice your craft
Use your time to improve your skills. Try a fun songwriting challenge, work on your technique, or practice rudiments to keep your skills sharp.
Stay on top of admin
Emails might not be everyone’s favorite task, but staying organized is crucial. Set aside time at least twice a week to respond to inquiries, pitch your music, or follow up with industry contacts. I usually try to do this once at the start and once at the end before the weekend.
Prioritize wellness
Make sure to schedule dedicated time for physical and mental health. Whether it’s exercising, meditating, or taking a moment to recharge, investing in your well-being is so important as health is wealth!.
By understanding your schedule, setting clear goals, and spreading tasks across your week, you can create a productive routine that supports both your music and your day job.
And don’t forget: rest is just as important as work. Your creativity thrives when you’re healthy and balanced. So, take breaks, enjoy the journey, and celebrate every small step forward in your music career.