Meaning: This quote by Trevor Rabin, a musician known for his work with the band Yes and for composing film scores, reflects the reality of creative work and the challenges that artists often face when managing multiple projects. Rabin's words highlight the common experience of juggling different creative endeavors and the inevitability of projects overlapping, despite the desire to focus on one at a time.

In the quote, Rabin acknowledges that while ideally, one would want to work on projects sequentially, the nature of creative work often leads to simultaneous or overlapping projects. This sentiment is relatable not only to musicians and composers but also to individuals in various creative fields, such as writers, visual artists, and filmmakers. The creative process is not always linear, and deadlines, opportunities, and inspiration can lead to the concurrent pursuit of multiple projects.

Rabin's reference to the need to "begin writing a new project just as you're finishing off another" underscores the dynamic and sometimes unpredictable nature of creative work. It speaks to the mindset of an artist who must adapt to the demands of the industry and the creative process itself. This reality is not limited to the field of music but resonates with anyone who has experienced the challenge of managing multiple creative endeavors.

Furthermore, Rabin's honesty in admitting the inevitability of project overlap provides a candid glimpse into the complexities of creative work. It acknowledges that despite the best intentions and efforts to focus on one project at a time, external factors and internal creative impulses can lead to concurrent work on multiple fronts. This candid acknowledgment can serve as a reassurance to other creatives who may feel the pressure to adhere strictly to a one-project-at-a-time approach.

From a practical standpoint, managing overlapping projects requires effective time management, prioritization, and the ability to switch gears seamlessly between different creative tasks. It also demands a certain level of mental agility and adaptability to maintain the quality and integrity of each project while navigating the challenges of multitasking.

In the context of music composition and production, overlapping projects may involve balancing the creation of original music for multiple albums, film scores, or other creative collaborations. This requires a deep understanding of each project's unique requirements, timelines, and creative vision, as well as the ability to compartmentalize one's focus when necessary.

Overall, Trevor Rabin's quote serves as a reminder that the creative process is often non-linear and that managing overlapping projects is a common challenge for artists across various disciplines. It offers a candid perspective on the realities of creative work and the need for adaptability and flexibility to navigate the complexities of juggling multiple creative endeavors.