Do you find yourself unsatisfied with your songwriting
and unable to finish songs? Are you in a band where
recording is so grueling that no one enjoys it? Do you
hesitate to share your songs with others until they are "just
right?" If you answered yes to any of these questions there
is some perfectionism in you. Read on to learn how to tame
your perfectionism and be more productive.
1. Connect to the reward of getting your song or
recording
completed. Imagine the feeling of satisfaction when
your
song or recording is done. If you are making a record,
envision that the record is complete and selling well and you
are getting favorable reviews in music magazines.
2. In contrast to being a perfectionist, strive for
excellence. What is perfection anyway? Excellence is a
much clearer target to achieve. Some of the best recordings
were done in one take while the musicians didn't even realize
they were being recorded. These musicians were only trying
to create excellent music, not achieve perfection.
3. Focus on what's realistic rather than what's ideal.
Even though you can always do more tweaking of your
song or recording, consider the time and resources available
to you and ask yourself what's a realistic amount of work to
put into your project.
4. Share your rough versions with at least one person
you trust to give you honest feedback. Even if you are
not satisfied with your song or recording as it is currently,
share it anyway - you may receive valuable feedback that
will help you finish the piece or consider it complete.
5. Reward yourself for your accomplishments.
Perfectionists often don't take the time to reward themselves
because they are never satisfied with the work they have
completed. It doesn't matter how big the reward - just
remember to celebrate after you've written a song or
finished a recording.
Good luck putting these tips into practice. Know that if
you can let go of your perfectionistic tendencies you will be
more productive in your music endeavors.
