Last Updated on April 5, 2024 by Arurhose
How can you make money as a creative? Should you? This post is for creatives who strongly believe they do not have a corporate bone in their body and their gift would make way for them (hmm … in this Nigeria?). You know I am what you call a polymath! How so? I can sing (released 3 songs), write poetry, and perform … OK that singing part is a bit hit and miss, but sha, all I know is that I read it somewhere, and I took a test online, and they said I am multi-talented. To the talented creative people who believe their expressions could be more, who want to get to that magic FI number, let’s talk!
Counting The Cost
You know what? The first song was called “He(art) Beat”. Real creative! Yes!! Why am I raising my voice? I had to say it because you were mocking me when I said I released 3 songs. You will beg me o. Should you commercialize your hobbies or creative expressions? Yes or no? I’d like you to think through this on your journey to financial independence.
The first and vital factor to consider is your environment. Yes, the world is literally a village now, but uhmm.. it’s still a big one, and Nigeria is a competitive compound in this village. For every Davido or Burna boy, there are hundreds of talented musicians (like me). *Don’t comment.. let’s just move on*, for every Victor Osimhen, there are hundreds of talented players playing street football. My point is Nigeria is bustling with creatives with a blend of passion, ingenuity and hustle power in them.
You will need patience and grit to get paid for your talent. Secondly, the economic landscape is not particularly mature to the point that creatives are rewarded with their work as fast as they would want. It would take quite some time before your talent pays your bills and takes care of your family. Let’s face it: not everyone can quit their day job and do it full-time.
Paying The Price
I will have you know I performed He(art) Beat on various stages! I am just saying. I’m a big deal.. Stop rolling your eyes, please. So what do you do? I think you need to decide how far you want to go with this; you need to decide in pursuing this dream how that affects your family and people who depend on you (that’s if you are not single. I know you were expecting me to say “single like me”… at this point, you don’t even rate me)
The best way to approach making money from your creative talent is to look at it like planting a tree. You must keep watering for a few years before seeing the fruit of your labour. While watering your tree, you will most likely need to work in someone else’s garden to sustain yourself.
Remember that story you’ve been carrying around in your head for years? The one with twists and turns that would make a Nollywood plot look predictable? Well, guess what? The world needs your stories! Start a blog, a YouTube channel, or a podcast dedicated to your creative field. Build a following (because, let’s face it, Nigerians love a good story!), and collaborate with other creatives for that extra spice. You will need to put in the extra work to be different and consistent.
Being a creative entrepreneur requires some serious hustle. It’s not all sunshine and fun. You will have to network constantly, stay on top of trends faster than anyone else, and, most importantly, believe in yourself. Remember that resilience and resourcefulness that define the Nigerian spirit? That’s your secret weapon. When do you get back from work? Can you spare 2 hours every day and 4 hours or more on the weekends dedicated to your passion? Can you spare 10% of your monthly income to purchase whatever is needed to help you dream? It’s really down to you. How much are you willing to sacrifice to see it work?
Mind Your Business
Treat it like a business (even if it is singing or dancing). Write a business plan and answer these questions.
- What is your financial projection?
- What is your minimum viable product?
- What’s your unique selling proposition?
It needs to be that serious… or sadly, you will never take it seriously. In 2024, whatever you do, don’t underestimate the power of social media. Your social media and internet marketing strategy has to be well thought through. Online marketplaces are your new best friends. Showcase your work and connect with people who appreciate your work.
Think about it – some of Nigeria’s most prominent stars started right where you are. Who knows, maybe your YouTube channel will be the next source of entertainment, or your blog will become the go-to guide for aspiring writers. The Nigerian creative industry is booming, and you have the potential to ride that wave to financial freedom (or at least enough for a steady passive income).
So, what are you waiting for? Channel your inner Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and get ready to turn your passion into profit. The world needs your unique voice, your artistic fire, and your Nigerian hustle. Go make that dream a reality, and don’t forget to share your success story—we Nigerians love a good comeback narrative, especially when it involves shaking up the status quo and proving that creativity can pay the bills. Now go forth and create, my friend! Whether you commercialize it or not… keep creating!