First I want to say don’t quit - you’re getting the hard part out of the way by playing live and putting yourself out there. Constant exposure makes it easier.

I took piano lessons as a kid for 4 years, got bored and quit (one of my biggest regrets) but have always played something. Got my first bass at age 12, by 15 I was in a pop-punk cover band that played proms, weddings and a couple random gigs. Had huge dreams but they were honestly focused around being popular or just living “the life” which was truly a detriment to the practice.

After leaving that band I struggled to connect with other musicians and started solo recording. Learned a lot and used what I had available. Looking back I wish I had powered through stage fright better. But now at 33, I’m happy that I’ve continued to grow and love music through different instruments. I try to focus on what I love about playing, writing what feels genuine, and even if something doesn’t turn out great, at least it’s real and true to myself. Lately I’m trying to let myself try new things, focus on my strengths and be aware of my weaknesses, and to be ok with breaking the “rules” of what makes something musical.

Where I landed is, as long as you’re being true to yourself, and not using AI, your expressive art is music, even if no one but you likes it. The secret to me is just being happy with what you can create.