As a gigging musician and painter I find #3 to be of the utmost importance in the creative process. It's not enough to harbor some intense creative potential-- We have to foster it every day by doing the things required to keep the flame alive. We have to find a way to be constantly inspired and reminded of that inspiration that drives us. You've got to always be hustling too though-- That's what makes it difficult. It's not enough to be Debussy if you want to make an impact-- You've got to be Debussy at his best and at the same time Debussy's manager/PR at his best simultaneously without having your spirit broken. No small feat! Glad to hear of your successes in journalism. Thank you for sharing them with us. It's tremendously positive.