If my teenage self would've known that his writing would go on to be read by thousands of people all over the world, I'm not sure whether my teenage self would've had the guts to actually go after it.

The overwhelming stress of success can just as easily cripple you as the imposter syndrome can keep you away from your best self.

Maybe it's because we don't know that makes it easier for us to succeed? 

Maybe being naive is a crucial ingredient for taking those first steps on the journey toward success.

And the first thing you try when you're starting out is rarely the thing that makes you successful.

Step By Step Mixing was the fifth book that I wrote about music production (ironically enough considering its subtitle...), but if it wasn't for all the previous projects, I never would've made something that has helped so many people.

Take this recent review from Jeff for instance:

"Like the back of the book says, this is the no BS guide to taking your mixes to the next level. I’ve been seriously into mixing the past couple years, spent hours on YouTube learning different techniques and tips, subscribed to URM and watched producers mix from the ground up and was still able to gain some valuable information from this book and understand things from a different perspective. The writing was straight to the point and very easy to follow for those that don’t particularly enjoy reading. If you’re on the fence about picking this up, I’d definitely recommend it!"

So whatever it is you're working on, even if that thing won't bring you the success you wanted, it's still a valuable stepping stone.

If it wasn't for all my other projects, my timeline would've been different and my alternate universe variant would probably not be writing these words and Jeff probably wouldn't have discovered my work.

Maybe he'd be more successful, I don't know.

But what is success really?

Is it always having MORE? Or is it just being content with what you have once you know your needs are met?

I'm not sure constantly wanting more is the way to go. Being content with the success you have doesn't have to make you complacent. It should make you happy to keep going.

And if you keep going, you'll keep finishing projects. 

Releasing your work.

Shipping your stuff.

And all that builds up to a body of work you can be proud of.

A successful life you actually like instead of chasing other people's definition of a good life.

That sounds successful to me. 

So if you're worried about whether your music sounds good enough, you can give Step By Step Mixing a try, or you can get in touch with me to help you personally reach your goals through my coaching.

Either way, it's better than doing the same thing over and over again expecting different results.

Take care,

Björgvin