Edition Twenty-One- Week Twenty-One:

Written by: Charlie Michaels

You don’t need another “just post more content” sermon. You need real talk. Because if you’re a creative—whether you sketch late at night, shoot videos on your phone, or write songs in your apartment—you already know what it means to hustle. You’re not here for fame, just the shot to build a life doing what you love without watering it down for the algorithm. So let’s ditch the sugarcoated advice and talk about what actually moves the needle when it comes to getting discovered without losing your soul.

Make Your Story as Clear as Your Work

You’re more than what you make. A lot of creatives hide behind the art, thinking the work should speak for itself—but these days, your story matters just as much as your product. People connect with people, not portfolios. So if you’re a photographer who learned on your dad’s old camera, or a poet raised by books and heartbreak, tell that story. Let people into the why, not just the what, and you’ll find that your audience sticks around for reasons deeper than aesthetics.

Collaborate Like Your Rent Depends on It

If you’re grinding solo, you’re missing the gold. Partnering with other artists—designers, dancers, musicians, whoever—can expand your reach in ways you can’t predict. Not every collab has to be for clout. Sometimes, it’s about merging two audiences that never knew they needed each other. So get uncomfortable, DM someone whose work makes you jealous, and make something weird and wonderful together. It might not pay up front, but that exposure can lead you straight to your next opportunity.

Own a Digital Space That’s Fully Yours

Social media is borrowed land. You need a plot of internet real estate with your name on the deed. Whether that’s a personal website, a Substack, or a newsletter people actually look forward to—create a home base. That way, when algorithms shift and platforms disappear (RIP Vine, hello TikTok), you still have a place where people can find you, buy from you, or follow your journey without interruption. Think of it like building your own gallery, but online.

Invest in Business Smarts Without Losing Creative Steam

Heading back to school might not sound like the most romantic move for an artist, but sharpening your business acumen can be a game-changer when it comes to turning your passion into a sustainable career. Understanding how to price, market, and sell your work isn’t selling out—it’s leveling up. A business management degree can give you solid grounding in leadership, operations, and project management. And with online programs now more flexible than ever, you can keep creating while building the skills that help you get your work into the world—view this page to learn more.

Talk to Strangers (Yes, Really)

Most creatives hate the word “networking,” but that’s because we’ve been taught to do it wrong. You don’t need to hand out business cards or schmooze at events with lukewarm wine and forced smiles. Just talk to people. Comment on work you admire. Share someone else’s stuff without expecting a repost. Offer value first, and you’ll be surprised how often people return the favor—or introduce you to the person who changes your whole career.

Let the Process Be Public

You don’t have to be a “content creator,” but showing the behind-the-scenes of your craft can pull people in like nothing else. We’re all addicted to progress. So if you’re a sculptor, show your first lump of clay. If you’re writing a novel, post a screenshot of your messy draft. People love being part of something that’s growing. They’ll root for you, share your updates, and when the finished piece drops, they’ll feel invested because they saw it take shape.

Say Yes Before You’re Ready, Then Deliver Like Hell

The creative world is full of impostor syndrome. You’re not alone in wondering if you’re “there yet.” But the truth is, if you wait until you feel ready, you’ll be waiting forever. Say yes to that feature, that pop-up show, that interview—even if your inner critic is screaming.

Then over-deliver. Surprise yourself with how prepared you actually are. Most of the people who “make it” didn’t feel ready either. They just showed up, and figured it out mid-air.

Know When to Charge and When to Give It Away

Exposure doesn’t pay the bills, but not all free work is evil. There’s a difference between being exploited and strategically offering value. Say yes to unpaid gigs that give you ownership, visibility, or creative control. Say no to anyone who’s just trying to get something for nothing. If someone’s pitching “a great opportunity” but they can’t name three ways it benefits you, walk away. Respect your craft enough to price it, but savvy enough to know when generosity builds momentum.

There’s no formula for creative success, and anyone selling one is probably just trying to sell you something. But there is a pattern: showing up consistently, building real relationships, keeping your voice intact, and making it easy for people to find—and fall in love with—your work. Getting discovered isn’t about shouting louder. It’s about making your work undeniable and your presence impossible to ignore. You don’t need to become an influencer or sell out to pay your rent with your art. You just need to bet on yourself.

Discover a world of emerging talent and captivating stories at Manual Magazines, where creativity meets community—submit your work or dive into our latest features today!