In today’s music scene, where artists are expected to be available to their fans, it is not uncommon for an artist to encounter individual fans who, for one reason or other, prove to be difficult to handle. The following tips will help any artist to prepare for—and deal with—the anxieties of this reality.
By Stan Popvich
1. Know Where You Stand: The most important thing to do is to know where you stand on a certain issue. Ask yourself if you are willing to do something that your fans want you to do. Ask yourself if it is the right thing to do and if it is legal.
2. Tell Others What You Will Do And Not Do: Once you know where you stand, you need to communicate this to your fans and followers. Explain to them that you do not want to do what it is they are asking you to do. Give them reasons why you feel this way. Be willing to answer their questions so they understand where you are coming from.
3. Stand Your Ground: Be firm in your decision and show confidence. Some of your fans will continue to argue with you and this is where you need to show that you mean business. Do not give in to their arguments. Do what you feel is right and stand by your decision.
4. Distance Yourself From People Who Give You A Hard Time: If some of your friends and fans are hindering your progress, then tell them how you feel and tell them that their actions are unacceptable. If this doesn’t work, then distance yourself from people who won’t make an effort to be a good friend. You need to surround yourself with positive and supportive people.
5. Be Happy With Yourself: You do not need to impress your fans or members of the media to be happy. It is important to be happy with who you are as a person. Once you are happy with who you are, then find others who will accept you for who you are. Do not let your fans pressure you into doing something that goes against your principles.
6. Take It One Day At A Time When Dealing With Your Fans: Instead of worrying about what your fans think, try to focus on today. Each day can provide us with different opportunities to learn new things, and that includes learning how to deal with problems. When the time comes, hopefully you will have learned the skills to deal with your situation.
7. You Can’t Please Everybody: There will always be individuals who will disagree with you. It is important to do what is best for your music career instead of worrying what your fans may think.
8. Do Not Be Afraid Of Being Alone: Do not do something you feel uncomfortable with because you fear being alone. Loneliness does not last forever. It is important to have a good set of friends to deal with any future loneliness. You may not always have somebody with you at all times, however loneliness doesn’t have to be something feared. Be true to yourself and be friendly to others are the best ways of overcoming loneliness.
9. Take Advantage Of The Help That Is Available Around You: If possible, talk to a professional who can help you manage your anxieties when it comes to your fans. They will be able to provide you with additional advice and insights on how to deal with your current problem. Remember that it never hurts to ask for help.
STAN POPOVICH is the author of A Layman’s Guide to Managing Fear Using Psychology, Christianity and Non Resistant Methods that presents a general overview of techniques that are effective in managing persistent fears and anxieties.
For additional information, visit managingfear.com.
