Halloween is as good a time as any to spook yourself into action. While I usually try to be reassuring and supportive with these newsletters, I’m here to scare you this week. Boo!

What if a collector calls for a commission? Are you ready with your pricing and conditions? Can you say “No, Thank You” if it’s not something you’re interested in? Can you under-promise and over-deliver? See articles on art pricing.

What if a venue has an opening for your work next month? Is it photographed? Is it framed? Is your mailing list in shape? You sure want to spend your time on last-minute promotions rather than inputting names into a database! See Promote Your Exhibit.

What if you sold something? Do you have your sales tax license? Are your Thank You notes ready to go? Do you have a computerized inventory list where you can input the collector’s information?
See software for your database.

What if someone unexpectedly asked you about your art? Are you ready to talk about it? Do you carry a portable portfolio (or pictures on your iPod or cell phone)? Can you hand them a business card? Will you go home and send a It’s Nice to Meet You note? Will you ask if they would like to be on your mailing list?
See The Relatively Pain-Free Artist Statement.

What if you experienced loss due to smoke, fire, theft, or water damage? Are you well covered by your insurance? You probably need home and business insurance in order to be completely covered–even if your business is in your home. See info to help you prepare for an emergency.

Boo!

Don’t be haunted by fears of having to be both artist and businessperson. As the title of the book says, “Feel the fear and do it anyway.” The real fear shouldn’t be in the doing; it should be in the NOT doing. What’s the worst that could happen if you took action in one of these areas? What’s the worst that could happen if you decide not to take action? Which will be easier for you to live with?

KNOW THIS———-~> Fear can be a good motivator if you don’t dwell in it.

THINK ABOUT THIS—~> Which scenario above will spook you into action?

DO THIS————~> Spook yourself into action. What questions scare you the most? Think of how good it will feel for you to conquer the fear. Really: Think about it. How will your life be better? How will tackling the fear help you sleep better at night?

Tell us about the fear that motivates you and listen to the podcast on the Art Biz Blog.