Have you ever been overwhelmed by the task of preparing for a musical performance or audition? If so, you’re not alone. This feeling of being stifled by a monumental task is a common experience for many musicians. The good news is, there are strategies you can implement to manage your practice effectively and overcome this overwhelm.
I have a podcast episode all about this.
Let’s dive into three simple strategies for when you are finding it hard to start that practice session, so that you can practice for those big goals and big deadlines.
Step 1: Start with small goals
One of the most effective ways to combat practice overwhelm is by breaking down your big goals into manageable, bite-sized tasks. This is an essential strategy for any musician looking to improve their craft. When you’re facing a significant goal, it can seem like a HUGE task that’s too overwhelming to even begin. The trick is to start small and gradually build momentum.
Let’s take a practical example. Suppose you have a difficult passage in a piece of music you’re learning. Instead of trying to perfect the entire passage in one go, break it down into smaller sections. Set a timer for 15 minutes and focus on just one section during that time. You can also apply this strategy to scales or any other technical exercises. Setting small, achievable goals can make the practice session feel less daunting and more manageable.
Step 2: Create a practice roadmap
Once you’ve mastered the art of breaking down big goals into smaller ones, the next step is to string these small goals together to create a blueprint for your ultimate goal. This process involves taking each of your smaller goals and mapping out a larger plan. This larger plan is your roadmap to success, and having a clear, well-defined path can greatly reduce feelings of overwhelm.
You might be thinking right now, Eleanor, how do I plan my bigger plan? I don’t know if I want to figure out how to make a bigger plan.
Well, you are in luck because I have already done that work for you.
I have created a Goal-Setting Cheat-Sheet just for you. All you have to do is fill it out. That’s it! Just fill it out.
Step 3- Reward yourself for working towards your musical goals
As you work towards your bigger goals, it’s important to not overlook the significance of rewarding yourself for your efforts. Both mental and physical rewards play a vital role in keeping you motivated and engaged in your practice. Whether it’s taking a well-deserved break, treating yourself to a favorite meal, or spending time with friends, rewarding yourself is an integral part of the journey towards achieving your musical goals.
Lastly, remember to rest your mind as well as your body. Switching off that nagging inner voice that’s constantly thinking about practice is vital. It’s important to give yourself permission to fully rest and recuperate, without feeling guilty about not practicing. This mental break can do wonders for your motivation and overall well-being.
REMEMBER THIS: Overcoming practice overwhelm is possible with the right strategies in place. By breaking down big goals into manageable tasks, creating a blueprint for your ultimate goal, and rewarding yourself along the way, you can navigate the path towards your musical ambitions more effectively. So, take a deep breath, grab your instrument, and get ready to conquer that practice overwhelm.
All my best,
Eleanor
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