Abstract

Drawing on wisdom from business leaders and philosophers, it provides practical advice on documenting interactions, the risks of litigation, and the value of taking the high road, ensuring that creative entrepreneurs can navigate adversity without sacrificing their long-term reputation.

Keywords: creative entrepreneurship, bad business, transparency, contract disputes, ethical decision-making, litigation, business reputation

Preface

The creative industries can be an exhilarating space to work in, filled with innovative minds, unorthodox projects, and countless opportunities for growth. But sometimes, the business side of creativity isn’t as glamorous. Deals go sour. Contracts get ignored. You might even find yourself on the receiving end of dishonesty or miscommunication, despite your best efforts to be thorough in your due diligence. So, what do you do when you find yourself facing a difficult situation? Whether you’re a musician, a band, or any other creative entrepreneur, here’s how to navigate those tricky waters with professionalism, transparency, and grace.

Transparency Is Your Best Ally

In the world of business, especially in the creative sector, things can get murky fast. That’s why one of the most valuable practices you can adopt is keeping receipts. Literally and figuratively.

When you’re communicating with collaborators, clients, or even contractors, make sure you’re documenting everything. Every phone call, email, and meeting. It’s not just about protecting yourself—it’s about fostering a culture of transparency. Make it a habit to follow up phone conversations with emails summarizing what was discussed and agreed upon, ensuring that everyone is on the same page. This can save you from any misunderstandings and provide you with a clear record in case things go awry.

This isn’t about being paranoid or distrusting, it’s about being proactive. Think of it as a “just in case” scenario—better to be safe than sorry. One quote that resonates in these situations is from business magnate Warren Buffett, who said, “It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it. If you think about that, you’ll do things differently.” Having receipts ensures that if your reputation or business dealings are called into question, you have the proof to support your stance.

Building Trust With Your Team

When business turns bad, it’s essential to have a trusted ally or two. It’s not always easy to bring personal matters into the professional realm, especially in group-based environments like bands, but having one or two people you can rely on for support is crucial. If you find yourself caught in a dispute or contract issue, it helps to have someone who can back you up, offering different perspectives or being a witness if needed.

If your group operates within an LLC or as part of a team, transparency between bandmates or partners becomes even more important. Share key elements of negotiations with those who will be impacted by them. Doing so ensures that everyone understands the broader context of the situation and avoids the “he said, she said” drama that can arise when misunderstandings occur. It also builds trust and fosters a more cohesive work environment—one where you can focus on creativity without worrying about miscommunication.

As the late Steve Jobs once said, “Great things in business are never done by one person. They’re done by a team of people.”


When the Contract Turns Sour

Even with contracts in place and all your due diligence done, things don’t always go as planned. You might find yourself on the receiving end of a breach of contract, or worse, being lied to by a contractor. In these situations, you might be tempted to go straight to the lawyers. And, in some cases, this might be necessary. But before you take legal action, consider the bigger picture.

While you may have a solid case and a reasonable chance to win in court, litigation comes with risks—sometimes far beyond financial ones. There’s the time and energy you’ll spend, but also the potential for bad blood. Even if you win, the drama can stick with you, especially if the other party is a well-known figure. The potential damage to your reputation and future opportunities is something you need to think about.

As David from the Bible wisely said, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” The high road might not always be the easiest, but it’s often the most productive one. Handle the situation with grace, professionalism, and transparency, and you may find that the long-term benefits outweigh the short-term satisfaction of going to court.

The Importance of Choosing Your Battles

Sometimes, even when you know you’re in the right, walking away from a bad deal or shady behavior is the best choice. Sure, it might feel unjust, especially if you’re losing out on money or a project you believed in. But, as Sun Tzu’s The Art of War teaches us, “He who is prudent and lies in wait for an enemy who is not, will be victorious.”

Ask yourself, Is this battle worth fighting? If you’re facing an unethical or dishonest contractor, consider the cost to your reputation, your emotional well-being, and your long-term goals. If your opponent is influential, a legal victory may come at the cost of public perception, which could hurt your brand down the line. Choose your battles wisely.

Practical Suggestions and Quotes to Keep in Mind

In the heat of the moment, it can be hard to think clearly. But having some quotes or practical guidelines to lean on can help. Here are a few gems to remember:

  • “It’s not personal, it’s business.” – Mario Puzo, The Godfather.
    This one is a reminder that, while you might feel betrayed, remember that business dealings are often impersonal. People make decisions based on their own interests, not yours.
  • “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” – The Golden Rule (Matthew 7:12)
    If you treat others with fairness and honesty, you’ll likely earn that in return. Keep this mindset, even when the other party doesn’t uphold it.
  • “In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.” – Albert Einstein
    Challenges in business can also be a breeding ground for new ideas, opportunities, and paths forward. The key is to remain adaptable.
  • “The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.” – Walt Disney
    No matter how difficult the situation, taking decisive action is far more effective than endless debating or worrying.

Taking the High Road, Even in Business

In the end, it’s crucial to recognize that the creative business world, like any other, is full of highs and lows. While things may not always go as planned, maintaining a level head, ethical standards, and a transparent approach will set you up for success in the long term. Whether you’re facing an unjust contract situation or dealing with dishonesty, navigating it with professionalism and grace is key. And remember, the reputation you build now will follow you for years to come.

So, as you enter into your next contract, partnership, or creative venture, carry these principles with you: keep receipts, build trust with your team, and always consider the cost of your actions. Choose your battles wisely, and when in doubt, take the high road.

References

Bible, Matthew 7:12 (The Golden Rule).

Buffett, Warren. The Essays of Warren Buffett: Lessons for Corporate America.

Jobs, Steve. Steve Jobs.

Puzo, Mario. The Godfather.

Tzu, Sun . The Art of War.