Back in my youth, I was a very serious trumpet player. It consumed my life. My only aim was perfection. Any flub, missed note, or mistake was grievous and cost me countless hours of self-recrimination. It was not a good scenario.
Fast forward 50 years (or so) and here I am playing again. Last night, the adult big band with which I play had a performance. I played lead on three of the nine songs (sharing lead with 2 other players).
My mindset shift from my previous ‘incarnation’ was significant. While, of course, my goal was to play to the best of my ability, it was also to enjoy the experience and have FUN.
I took the opportunity to listen to the three pieces this morning. I heard all the flubs, but I also heard the joy in my playing. The mistakes were insignificant compared to the amount of fun. And therein lies the gem….
What shifts in mindset can help you break free of constraints that will allow you to find joy in all you do?
