Review: Don't Keep Your Day Job by Cathy Heller
by H. Murray Dec. 10th, 2019.
Dear Universe,
Thank you for bringing me exactly what I need exactly when I need it. I'm not sure what larger power is picking up on my needs and desires, but I am receiving powerful gifts from the universe, and this book is no exception. I received an advance copy of Cathy Heller's book "Don't Keep Your Day Job" about one month ago and have been absorbed in it ever since. I've been taking notes, dog-earring pages, highlighting quotes, and subscribing to recommended podcasts like a woman possessed. I have an action plan. This is the second book that corpSonore has received to review that appeared at the exact right time in my life. The first reminded me of the power of resilience and empowered me to fail to succeed. The second, this one, gave me advice and ideas on how to fail and also find success. November is when I start planning for the new year. I plot out goals and resolutions, take a step back to look at the big picture, and evaluate the good and the bad of the previous year. Cathy Heller wrote the book I need to zoom in, and zoom out as corpSonore grows and evolves.
I was not familiar with Cathy's work before reading this book, but by the time I finished it, I felt like I had found a kindred spirit, close girlfriend, and mentor all rolled into one. Cathy's story also struck me; She is a musician! She is in the music business! I couldn't believe that, however, the cosmos aligned to send me this book that the author would be intimately aware of this industry AND live in the same city. This book introduced me to so many excellent entrepreneurs and writers who are helping others turn their passions into projects and projects into income streams. Since finishing the book, I have listened to many of the podcasts Cathy Recommends and her podcast, which conveniently has the same name as the book. I found her writing motivating, practical, and supportive. She explains simply and effectively her own path and humble beginnings, and includes journal prompts to ponder and help get the creative juices flowing, input from experts in different fields, and actionable steps to work towards your goals.
I found that her writing tore apart some of my preconceived notions of myself like imposter syndrome, self-doubt, confusing, and limiting beliefs about money as a musician. I felt empowered to work hard for what I want and deserve. I awakened to the realization that every single person, including myself, has something unique to offer the world, and most of what limits us comes from within.
Heller includes a list of recommended podcasts and books at the end, and I have added them all to my TBR list.
If you are looking for a serious dose of motivation, or don't know how to move forward with your idea, this book is for you. I recommend it for anyone with a passion project they want to get off the ground, performers who feel limited by their mindset, and anyone with something to share and teach.
"Don't Keep Your Day Job" was released on November 12th, 2019, and is also available on Audible (narrated by the author).