“Am I Doing Enough This Summer?”

This is a question that has boggled the minds of most, if not all, musicians. We sit on our couches, open social media, and see someone else’s practice selfie. We scroll through other people doing orchestral courses and workshops, having amazing holidays, and seeming super productive. And we start to wonder, “what am I doing?”

I started this summer with a goal and a plan. I had an idea of what I was going to achieve every day. But what I didn’t account for was that I had just finished my first year at a conservatoire, and I was exhausted. I needed to rest. And you might too.

The thing about social media is that it is a highlight reel. How many posts have you come across that show people resting or doing a hobby on the couch? How many videos of people struggling with doubt and comparing themselves? Probably not many.

Your experience of wondering if you are doing enough is not singular, and you are not alone in it. So the next time you see someone’s post about their amazing summer, I invite you to notice when you want to compare yourself and take a breath. Because your summer is good for you. If you need to rest, you need to rest, and that is okay.

For me, my summer has been a mix of resting and exciting opportunities. I did an orchestra course and played in the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, and I also spent time resting in my flat. Both are okay.

Everyone’s summer is different. I invite you to enjoy yours.

All my best,

Eleanor