Introduction
Recently, I stumbled upon a post where someone proudly declared they’d stopped cooking three meals a day-and suggested the rest of us should follow suit. It got me thinking: What if we applied that logic to music? What if, instead of picking up your guitar, you just… stopped?
Sounds absurd, right? Yet, in the audio world, a lack of passion is just as noticeable-and just as baffling.
The Sarcastic Case for Quitting Guitar
Let’s imagine, for a moment, the “benefits” of quitting your guitar:
- No more late-night jam sessions interrupting your sleep schedule.
- Zero risk of callused fingers or broken strings.
- More time for “real” productivity-like soldering audio jacks or alphabetizing your XLR cables.
- Forget the thrill of a perfect take-embrace the calm monotony of spreadsheet macros instead.
Of course, this is all tongue-in-cheek. But it highlights a real issue: when you treat your craft like a chore, it shows.
The Audio Industry Sees Through the Motions
Let’s be honest: the audio world is full of people who’ve lost their spark. And recruiters? Most won’t give a second glance to a portfolio or resume that’s running on autopilot. Sure, there are a few honorable exceptions-recruiters and hiring managers who are always searching for that unmistakable spark. But they’re looking for more than just technical skills; they want to see genuine passion and commitment.
When your passion is missing, it seeps into your work, your interviews, and your emails. The difference between someone who can’t not play, mix, or create, and someone who’s just going through the motions, is obvious.
Did You Get This Far Just to Get This Far?
There’s a reason you chose this path. Audio isn’t about easy wins or background noise-it’s about loving the process, sweating the details, and chasing that elusive perfect sound. If you’re thinking about quitting your guitar, your DAW, or your passion, maybe it’s time to ask yourself: Is this really your thing?
Because in audio, the only people who truly thrive are the ones who can’t imagine doing anything else.
How to Rekindle (or Recognize) Your Passion
- Reflect on your “why.” What made you fall in love with audio in the first place?
- Challenge yourself. Take on a new project, learn a new technique, or collaborate with someone outside your comfort zone.
- Share your journey. Connect with others who share your drive, and don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm.