I've been thinking lately about how much more
productive individuals and groups of people -
musicians and artists (anyone really) are when they
are in a playful state of mind. I'm not talking about
unfocused goofing off and avoiding the task at hand,
but being relaxed and having fun while working.
This idea rang true for me while I was in a particular
rock band. We played with a drummer who was
really critical of everyone's playing and was so
uptight about everything being perfect. What that
did for me was make me so on edge that I wasn't
performing my best. I wasn't relaxed because I
didn't want to screw up and get yelled at by this
guy. I see this situation occur frequently in other
settings as well and in my coaching business. It's
amazing how many great ideas get generated and
how much creativity is unleashed when people are in
a playful state. I always make a point of saying
stupid things that I think are funny before gigs
especially when I notice that someone is nervous
since I know that they will perform better when they
are more relaxed and laughing.
If you are the leader of a group or a boss or manager
in your workplace you probably have noticed that the
people who work for you are better able to
communicate with you, express their ideas and enjoy
what they do when you as the leader create a
playful work atmosphere. Everyone's had the
experience of a boss who intimidates with "why
wasn't this done right?" You freeze up, come up with
a stammering lame answer and don't necessarily
perform better from this approach. Negative energy
can kill creativity.
So jump in that sandbox and get playing! They don't
say "playing" music for nothing.
If you are near a computer this Wednesday,
September 20 at 3 PM east coast time, I'll be a guest
on Sallie Felton's radio show, "A Fresh Start with
Sallie Felton." The web address is www.contac
ttalkradio.com
. I'll be discussing the big
topic of helping musicians move foward in their music
business. Don't worry, if you miss the live show you
can hear it later through audioacrobat off of Sallie's
website A
Fresh start with Sallie Felton.
Finally don't forget to check my blog Fi
nding Your Rhythm
