I know I'm Gifted. What Do I Do Next?

Your next steps can determine your future; take your time making this decision. Ask yourself this question. What are the 2-3 moves I need to make to ensure a fantastic future in my chosen field? It's a powerful question that you must ask in any area of your life, but in this case, we are talking about your life's work. The answer to this question led me to attend college as both an undergraduate and graduate student. This decision was crucial because I wanted to establish the musical foundation necessary to become a professional musician, specifically a pianist. I desired to play multiple genres, so I needed time, information, access to professionals, practice time, and confidence. That is what college gave me as a bright-eyed, eager student stepping into the halls of The University Of The District of Columbia in our nation's capital, Washington D.C. It was a new beginning, and I was ready to take on this new challenge.

I faced many challenges along the way, such as [specific challenge 1] and [specific challenge 2], but I was determined to succeed. Clue #3 is about asking yourself the right questions and taking decisive next steps to help secure your place in the music industry. Only you can ask and answer those specific questions for yourself. Your path to greatness begins with self-discovery, and that's why I've provided you with questions to ask yourself to arrive at the correct conclusions. After you have answered those questions, consult with people you trust and who can help you refine your next steps even further. We are not meant to do things on our own. We should all have at least one or two people we can confide in. Mentors can help you sidestep any mistakes they might have made in their journey to greatness. So, don't be afraid to call, email, or send a text to someone who may have the keys that can unlock something that you need. In the 21st century, let's face it, we are very spoiled. We have access to an unlimited amount of information that has the power to launch you to the next dimension. I am a firm believer that bookstores and libraries are among the wealthiest places on earth. It's because it holds records of past successes and failures, from which you can learn valuable lessons. Why rob a bank when you can learn so many useful things in a place where they value quiet? Can you tell that I love books? I'm literally smiling as I'm writing this. I get overwhelmed by the number of books I want to read, as there is so much to learn. I write all this to say the answers are out there. It's as easy as checking out a book at the library. Sounds easy, right? Then why aren't people driving at 100 mph on the highway to their local library or bookstore to retrieve books daily? It's wild!

Let me give you this golden nugget: Don't let life distract you from your destiny and achieving your life's work. The grave is full of people who never rose to greatness because of distractions. The next valuable tool that will propel you forward is online classes. I have taken advantage of numerous courses to expand my skill set. The fantastic thing is that someone has done the work for you; you have to sit and listen. I can't tell you how I have increased my value as a creative exponentially by taking courses that pertain to my particular field. The main website I have used is called "Udemy". I even have a wish list of classes that I will take in the future. My desire to consistently learn is a way to stay ahead and remain sharp. There are plenty of other websites that offer classes, and you should take advantage of them. The thing I like about Udemy is that they frequently offer discounts, so you don't have to break the bank. You can acquire those skills without putting your house up as collateral. This era is known as the information age, and it is clear to see why. There is a wealth of information available to us, and I want to ensure that you are aware of it.

The next useful tool that's available to us all is Social media, and it's free.  YouTube is not just a website to watch pointless cat videos; it is also a search engine that serves us daily. I don't have a problem with paying for classes, but there is nothing better than learning for free, at least in the beginning. If you need a quick reference, YOUTUBE is your friend. In my opinion, Google and YOUTUBE go hand in hand. As you are well aware, when you Google a topic, it provides not only material to read but also YouTube videos. Like Aladdin said, it's a whole new world, and you can benefit from it every day. The possibilities are endless. I'm convinced that with determination, grit, and a strong work ethic, we all can accomplish all that we set out to do. Now is the time for you to spend some time thinking and deciding on the direction you want to head in, as far as pursuing the tools you need. I have laid out not all, but some of the tools available to you, and there are many more. There has never been a time when so much is available to us that we can succeed, but you still have to put forth effort and pursue what you want. You are enough, and you have what it takes to win. Set aside all distractions and move forward at full speed in the direction of your dreams, goals, and aspirations. You got this, and the world is waiting for the greatness that is within us all. Let's make it happen!

The Toolkit for musicianship mastery: http://bit.ly/3k5v9Vi 

Youtube Channel: https://youtube.com/@thetonikingexperience7645

Teach 1 Podcast- https://teach1tuesday.buzzsprout.com

Rare Keys Production- https://rarekeysproduction.com

Toni King link: http://www.linktr.ee/toni.king