Like 'The Little Engine that Could,' we can't get where we want to go without saying "I think I can!" - or better yet, "I know I can!" Tenacity is about developing and sticking to a plan in order to reach that destination of success.

1) Enjoy the whistle stops

The surest way to arrive at success is by fueling your journey with a positive attitude, and choosing an itinerary that allows you to enjoy the whistle stops along the way. This means taking pleasure from creating new samples, designing and implementing promotions, researching potential clients and networking.

2) It's about the art, not you

Remember, your business transactions are about the suitability of your illustrated product for the client's purposes - it's not about you. Keeping this in mind will help you maintain a valuable emotional distance throughout all negotiations.

3) Create a positive and confident tone

If you travel full speed ahead with confidence about what you are offering and clarity about what you are expecting in return, then you can anticipate a reflective positive response.

4) Contact your "Hit LIst"

Concentrate on a small favorite segment of your targeted "hit list" of connections. Try to pursue some clients who are not included in the usual listings that every other illustrator is using...and keep up the contacting!

5) Nurture your existing clients

Most work comes from repeated business offered by a small percentage of clients, so nurture every existing client and connection. Show your appreciation for the art director's role in the collaboration by requesting samples for your portfolio, commenting on something you saw that they directed, pointing out an article about a shared interest, wishing them well for a birthday...you get the idea. Once someone because a client, don't lose the connection.

6) Branding

When someone says "I'll keep you in mind," make sure that they do. Establish your distinctive brand and keep it in front of your audience with varied and repeated promotions. Design a realistic contact schedule that you know you can maintain - send emails, postcards, handwritten notes, make phone calls. Maintaining a visual presence will bring your work to the client's mind when an appropriate assignment comes along.

7) Contact again!

Maintain good communication records and note when next to be in touch. Establish a reconnect pattern that you can easily implement.

8) Don't seem desperate

You really can't travel too far as a starving artist. Money in your pockets will help you negotiate from a place of self-assuredness. To maintain that critical positive attitude, you may need to supplement your illustration income until your career is in full gear.

Don't just say "I think I can..." Follow these steps towards tenacity and you'll KNOW you can! All aboard!