Why Artists Need to Think Like Entrepreneurs – Advice from James Barbour

Why Artists Need to Think Like Entrepreneurs – Advice from James Barbour

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James Barbour explains why artists must embrace the entrepreneurial mindset to thrive in today’s creative world, and how Star Power is helping lead that shift.

Artists are some of the most creative, committed, and courageous people I know. But too often, they’re told to wait. To audition. To get picked.

Here’s the truth: if you’re waiting to be chosen, you’re handing over the pen to someone else to write your story.

In my years on Broadway, I learned that talent alone doesn’t guarantee success. What separates the ones who sustain a career from those who burn out? It’s not just skill. It’s strategy.

That’s why I believe every artist must think like an entrepreneur.

Entrepreneurs build platforms. They find their audience. They create value and connection. And most importantly, they don’t wait for permission to start.

The same applies to you if you're a singer, actor, dancer, writer, or creator of any kind. You already have the creative engine—now it’s time to steer it with vision.

This is exactly why I created Star Power.

It’s not a motivational program. It’s a movement to equip artists and creatives with the tools they need to own their brand, build their business, and monetize their magic.

Here are 3 shifts I teach inside Star Power:

  • From Performer to Platform – Stop relying solely on gigs and start building an ecosystem of influence.
  • From Waiting to Launching – You don’t need to wait to be discovered. Create, package, and offer something valuable now.
  • From Talent to Transformation – Your skill gets attention. Your message creates impact.

You don’t need to leave your art behind. 

You just need to bring your business brain to the party.

If you’re ready to shift from surviving to thriving as an artist, it starts with your mindset.

Let’s stop asking for a seat at the table and start building our own.

Follow me on social:
@JamesBarbourNow on Facebook
@JamesBarbourNow on Instagram
@JamesBarbourNow on YouTube

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