1. First and foremost, when making decisions, go with your gut instincts. Easier said than done, and it may not always feel like it’s the right decision, but most of the time, it is. Have confidence in yourself; believe in yourself. If it doesn’t go your way, it’s ok – don’t be too hard on yourself. Learn from it and move on.

2. Experience is everything. From day one of working towards your goals, do whatever you can and put yourself in situations that you can learn from. I honestly believe that everything I did as a kid – the training, the performances (good and bad), the knock backs, the stuff ups – contributed to where I am today. Even at 40, I’ve realised that, more than ever, I still have so much to learn and experience. You never stop learning and evolving as a person and artist.

3. It’s really important to have the right people around you. Not people that tell you what you want to hear, not people that just facilitate what you think you need and want, and definitely not people you can’t trust. You need people that challenge you – with respect. They need to understand you not only as an artist but as a person. Culture starts from the top and a working relationship needs to be built on integrity, respect, understanding and patience. Surround yourself with people that have ambition and drive. Always be appreciative for the hard work people around you put into your career; remember to thank them and not just expect it! 

4. It’s ok to say NO. Sometimes it’s one of the hardest things to do, but it’s easier if you have a clear direction and understanding of what you want to achieve and you know your worth. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve been told ‘this will be good for you’ or ‘this will be great publicity’ or ‘I can’t believe you’re turning that down’. Quality over quantity! Make decisions that help you move forward, not the ones that are easy, predictable and will only make you plateau or cruise through life. Don’t worry about what other people think – do what’s right for you. 

5. Most importantly: LOVE what you do! Don’t get me wrong, this industry is a business and young people should realise that asap. You need to be the CEO of you, and you need to cross the T’s and dot the I’s. But the drive to survive in this industry has to come from passion for what you do. I always say 90% of my job happens off the stage and away from the recording studio. But as soon as you walk on that stage or get behind the mic to record, forget about the business side of things and be you, the artist.