Frustration is a normal part of being a musician, but how do we work through it in our every day practice? Here are my top 3 ways to work through frustration as a musician.
1. Understanding that it is normal
Imagine your favourite musician — classical or not. I bet you they know frustration in music. Every musician does. When you are feeling that frustration in your own practice, know that it is completely normal and okay to feel this way.
If you aren’t convinced and still end up comparing yourself to others, I have found that talking to other musicians about their frustration can really help. Just go up to them and ask them about how they deal with frustration. You might find that you aren’t alone. That can be a great first step to working through your personal practice frustration.
2. Letting it wash over you
I’ve found that when I stub my toe, if I relax in that moment, the pain goes away a lot quicker than if I tense up. This is the case with not only physical pain, but emotional pain as well. It is also true with frustration.
In my experience, if I push my frustration down and ignore it, it just gets bigger. If I let it just be and let it wash over me, it can make it a lot easier to pass over me.
3. Stopping and taking a break
Sometimes we have tried all the things, and we just need to take a break– and that is okay. Whether it is 15 minutes or for the rest of the day, doing something you really love can help you through the frustration. Sometimes the problem won’t be fixed in that practice session, and that is okay.
Bonus: Practice journaling for effective improvement
If you want to have effective practice sessions and be able to look back on your improvement, a practice journal is a great way to go.
I started back up with a practice journal last year, and it made such a big change in my practice.
For me, I use a Notabl_ Practice Journal which already has everything laid out for me to plan my sessions — all I have to do is fill in the blanks.
As soon as I realised this was working, I knew that I had to tell you about it and give you a code. Use code ELEANOR15 for 15% off your order.
I never recommend anything that I don’t love. This email contains an affiliate code which means that I receive a commission — with no extra cost to you! 😊
I wish you all the best in your practicing!
All my best,
Eleanor
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