In our blog today we are thinking about growth. In an attempt to allow balance in my work and personal life I have enjoyed trying to reflect the seasons more. I am learning to accept quiet times and use them for learning/technical work, planning (usually the dark winter months) and enjoy them knowing that busier times always come, particularly in the warm sunny summer months. Some people try ‘wintering’, a sort of modern-day hibernating - is this something you have tried?

So as we are now in spring, I am thinking of growth. What is growth in our performing life? Why is growth important? How can we grow?

What is growth?

We’ve all felt that nagging feeling that we are ‘stuck’, failing to progress, or being given work that does not stretch us - and felt frustration from those feelings! We don't always feel that we are in a position to progress at a pace we are happy with. So taking some ownership is helpful to plan your own development.

So what can you do? It’s a case of ‘Show: don’t tell’. Don't waste time telling people, find ways to do it!

Why is growth good for us?

Having a growth mindset means believing that effort and skill development will better your life.

As humans, having a ‘growth mindset’ is linked with higher levels of wellbeing and better mental health.

Those with a growth mindset are found to have better ability to cope with stress and anxiety.

Have a quick google to read more about growth mindset and how it might help you!

Tips to grow

• Choose new repertoire, research something you haven’t yet learned. Perhaps if you are a singer you could brush up your language skills, or learn a new song cycle?

• Tackle the technique you have been having difficulty with. We all come to a point where we need to address something that has been causing us difficulty - maybe there is someone who can help you do that or you can ask your teacher to help you find ways to work it out.

• Work with someone new. A new accompanist, a new group of musicians, a new teacher, a new coach, a music course… Get a fresh perspective and ask their advice.

• Be brave. Challenges help you to figure out the true extent of your abilities. Experimenting in lessons and with teachers is a safe space to try.

• Remove the fear of failure. If you try something in a safe space, failure is not a problem, and growth is more likely as you will not be holding back.