Don't Give Up - Your Breakthrough Might Be Closer Than You Think

Let's talk about something real: that voice in your head that whispers "maybe it's time to give up" every time you hit a rough patch. I've heard this same story from countless mix engineers I've coached - talented professionals who were this close to throwing in the towel right before their breakthrough moment.

Here's what I've learned from working with these artists and watching their journeys: success rarely comes as one massive wave. Instead, it builds like a mix - layer by layer, element by element, until suddenly everything clicks into place.

The Monthly Cycle of Doubt

I've noticed a pattern in my coaching sessions. Around the 20th of each month, when rent and bills loom large, the doubt creeps in. That's when I get messages like:

"Maybe I should just get a regular job..." "I don't know if I can keep doing this..." "Everyone else seems to be making it except me..."

Sound familiar?

What's Really Happening Behind the Scenes

Here's something most people don't talk about: even those "overnight success" stories you see on Instagram usually took years of consistent work. One of my coaching clients was ready to quit after two years of grinding. Today, just eight months later, he's working on major label projects and turning down work because he's too busy.

The difference? He didn't quit during month seven.

Breaking Down the Success Timeline

Through my work with audio professionals, I've identified three critical phases that almost everyone goes through:

1. The Foundation Phase (6-12 months)

   • Building systems

   • Defining your unique approach

   • Making those first key connections

2. The Growth Phase (12-24 months)

   • Refining your process

   • Growing your network

   • Starting to see consistent work

3. The Breakthrough Phase (24+ months)

   • Word of mouth kicks in

   • High-quality referrals increase

   • Your reputation starts working for you

The catch? Most people give up during the Growth Phase, right before things start to click.

Instead of Giving Up, Try This

When that urge to quit hits (and it will), here's what I tell my clients:

1. Document Your Progress

   • Look back at where you were 6 months ago

   • Review client feedback and wins

   • Track your skill development

2. Adjust Your Strategy

   • Are you really struggling, or just growing?

   • What's working? Do more of that

   • What's draining you? Eliminate it

3. Connect with Your Community

   • Share your challenges

   • Learn from others' experiences

   • Remember you're not alone

The Truth About "Overnight" Success

In all my years working with pro audio brands and mix engineers, I've never seen a true overnight success. What I have seen are countless professionals who kept showing up, even when it felt hopeless, until suddenly things clicked.

Remember: The moment you feel like giving up might be exactly when you're about to break through. The industry doesn't need another person who gave up - it needs YOUR unique voice, YOUR perspective, YOUR contribution.

Moving Forward

If you're in that dark place right now:

1. Take a breath

2. Look how far you've come

3. Make one small improvement today

4. Connect with someone who gets it

5. Keep going

Your breakthrough might be closer than you think.

And if you need someone to talk to who's been there and helped others through it, my DMs are open. Sometimes all it takes is one conversation to shift your entire perspective.

Keep creating. Keep pushing. Keep believing.

The industry needs what only you can bring.

Michael J. Morgan helps mix engineers build sustainable careers and works with pro audio brands to connect authentically with their audience. Follow for more insights on building a thriving creative career.