January 9
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"I didn't have time to practice this week."
The first week we hear it, it's understandable...maybe it's the first week back at school, maybe it was an exceptionally busy week of homework...who knows. But things happen. It's cool.
But when it approaches the third or fourth week in a row, we get concerned.
And then we blink, and a few years have passed.
"I didn't have time to practice this week."
These words have plagued music teachers for generations. Other teachers and coaches too, of course. But, these words have a special place for piano teachers.
Kids are living during a unique time right now.
The age of instant gratification, a crippling homework load, building a college resumé starting in elementary school, and trying to have a social life.
It's harder than ever to slow down, stay consistent, and build a skill over time.
But, let's be real. Of course there is time to practice...unless you're a prisoner or something.
Even if that time is only for two minutes. Starting with two consistent minutes a day can make all the difference.
A more appropriate statement would be, "I feel so overwhelmed with my schoolwork and other things, I don't feel like I can make the time to practice."
Or even, "I don't enjoy playing an instrument." There's nothing wrong with that, either. It's not for everyone.
Both of these are more realistic. And, we can do something about them.
The problem with accepting the "I don't have time to practice" fallacy as true is what it can lead to.
Today, it might be that there is no time to practice music.
Tomorrow, it could be that there is no time to exercise.
Later, it could be that there is no time to spend with family.
If it's not graded and I won't get in trouble, why should I bother trying when I'm so busy?
That is the message I worry we send children if we accept the "I don't have time to practice" fallacy as being true.
So, let's confront it instead.
Draw the line in the sand. Take control of time again. Start with two minutes. It could make all the difference.
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For parents, students, and anyone else who believes that music can and should be a meaningful part of everyone's life.
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How did this past week go? What’s something you could have done better? What can you change this week to do that thing better? And how will you make sure you stick to it? Weekly reviews aren’t sexy, by any means. But they’re effective. Do it for a couple months, and you’ll be astounded by the results.
Read MoreWhen it comes to practicing, most people don’t get how time works. People think the amount of practice time is most important. Rather than the frequency. Logic tells us this: Practicing 5 minutes for six days would be the same as practicing 30 minutes for one day. It adds up to the same total minutes, so the benefits are the same.
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