If you are a writer or an artist:

--First get a stable job that offers tenure and a substantial annuity, BEFORE ANYTHING ELSE.

--Do not get swayed by "fans" who tell you how amazing you are and how equally amazing your works are. THEY DO NOT MATTER. They do NOT pay your bills.

--Pay all of your debts.

--Your goal is NOT to be a National Artist. Your goal is to have your own house and lot, send your children to school, and make your family live as comfortably as possible.

Do NOT do things the other way around. Otherwise you will end up in dire need and in dire poverty, and you will discover, in addition, that no one really cares whether you are an artist or a writer or not.