Playing an instrument is a skill that takes time, patience and practice to master. While the end result is often rewarding, it can sometimes be difficult to motivate yourself to practice and play regularly. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned musician, here are some tips to help you stay motivated and engaged with your instrument.
1. Set goals
Setting goals is essential to keeping yourself motivated and focused on your progress. It can be helpful to set short-term and long-term goals for your playing and practice. Short-term goals might include learning a new song or technique, while long-term goals could be becoming proficient in a particular genre or earning a certification.
2. Make a schedule
Create a schedule that works for you and stick to it. Whether it’s a half-hour a day or an hour several times a week, make practice a regular part of your routine. Treat your practice sessions like appointments and don’t skip them unless absolutely necessary.
3. Break it up
Breaking your practice into smaller sessions can be helpful in keeping you motivated. Rather than practicing for an hour straight, break it up into three twenty-minute sessions. This will give you something to look forward to throughout the day and keep you engaged.
4. Set the mood
Creating a comfortable and inviting space to practice will help keep you motivated. Set up a designated space for your practice with comfortable seating and good lighting. Aesthetically pleasing surroundings will help keep you inspired and engaged in your playing.
5. Find a practice partner
Finding someone to practice with can be a great motivator. Not only can you share ideas and techniques with each other, but also you’ll have someone to hold you accountable and keep you on track.
6. Keep track of your progress
Keeping track of your progress is essential to staying motivated. Use a notebook or app to chart your progress and note areas that need improvement. Seeing the progress you’ve made can be a great motivator to push yourself further.
7. Try new things
Trying new things can help keep you motivated and engaged in your playing. Experiment with different playing styles, learn a new song or explore alternative tunings. Trying new things will keep your practice sessions fresh and exciting.
8. Reward yourself
Set up a reward system for yourself along the way. Perhaps after mastering a particular technique or learning a challenging song you can treat yourself to something special. This will help keep you motivated and give you something to look forward to.
Playing an instrument takes effort and dedication, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. By keeping these tips in mind, you can stay motivated and engaged in your practice and playing. Remember, practice makes perfect, but it also has the power to inspire and bring joy into your life.
