Turning setbacks into stepping stones
by Ted Nelson
We all face challenges that can feel like huge unpassable roadblocks on our musical journey.
Life's full of ups and downs, twists and turns! We know that, but it still SUCKS. It still feels pretty 💩.
What if we can start to reframe setbacks as an opportunity to grow stronger, wiser, and more resilient?
I want to share two personal experiences that shaped my own path and offer some practical ways you can transform negative experiences into powerful catalysts for success.
Define your success:
As an undergraduate, I wasn’t allowed to try out for the prestigious “performer’s certificate” because my junior year jury wasn’t good enough. That experience shattered me emotionally for a week. But then I made a decision: instead of letting someone else define my success, I set my own course. I analyzed what went wrong, figured out exactly what I needed to improve, and ensured I would never miss an opportunity like that again. This mindset shift is something I aim to instill in all our students.
Build resilience and embrace challenges:
Another time, I played what I felt was an absolutely flawless audition round in the prelims, yet I didn’t advance. It was a tough pill to swallow, but I recognized that the orchestra I was auditioning for was extremely idiosyncratic. Rather than letting this setback define me, I took it as a tremendous personal success and used it to fuel my preparation for my next two auditions. This resilience led me to the finals and ultimately landed me my job in Cincinnati.
Transform setbacks into stepping stones:
- Shift your perspective: View setbacks as detours, not roadblocks. Reframe challenges positively, and use them as fuel to propel you forward in your career.
2. Develop problem-solving skills: Negative experiences often require creative solutions. Approach problems with a strategic mindset to find opportunities for growth.
3. Foster a growth mindset: Believing in your ability to improve can turn failures into valuable experiences. Cultivate a mindset that sees every experience as a path to growth.
4. Improve emotional intelligence: Understanding and managing your emotions can turn negative situations into learning moments. Build emotional intelligence to navigate the ups and downs of your musical journey.
5. Enhance your communication skills: Miscommunication can lead to negative outcomes. Learn effective communication strategies to build better relationships in your professional life.
6. Create a support network: Surround yourself with a community that supports and encourages you. Join our network of like-minded musicians for valuable insights and support.
7. Invest in continuous learning: Turn setbacks into opportunities for growth by continually improving your skills. Our coaching programs offer ongoing education to keep you ahead of the curve.
A Music360, we’re dedicated to helping you navigate these challenges and turn every negative experience into a stepping stone towards your success. Let’s redefine what success means together and make your musical journey a fulfilling and thriving one.
Our Thrive program for musicians is a professional development course with a dose of wellness and wisdom. We'd love you to check it out, submit your application today!
Cheering for you!
