Building a Personal Brand: Establishing Your Identity as a Music Educator Mom
When it comes to building a freelance music teaching business, building a personal brand and knowing who you serve is the most crucial part of the equation. And as a music educator mom, your audience is clear – your students, your children, and your community. They are the heartbeat of your brand, the driving force behind everything you do, but you need to get more specific.
Navigating the journey of establishing your identity can feel overwhelming at times, especially when balancing the demands of public school teaching with the desire for more flexibility and autonomy. That's where personal branding comes in – it's about crafting a narrative based off of your own experience that aligns with your values and aspirations.
Start by getting clear on what sets you apart as a music educator mom. What makes your approach to teaching unique? How do you create a nurturing environment for your students while also being present for your own children? What instrument or learning style do you most like to teach? What type of class or lesson really gets you going? These are the stories that will resonate with your audience and draw them closer to you, finding you the "perfect student" for you.
As you explore opportunities outside the traditional confines of public education, keep your audience in mind. What do they need from you? How can you best serve them while staying true to yourself? Whether it's offering private lessons, starting a music workshop, creating a community ensemble, or launching an online course, trust that you have what it takes to make a meaningful impact. You just need to let your people know that you're there for them!
Stepping into the unknown can be daunting, especially when it means leaving behind the security of a steady paycheck (I talk about dealing with inconsistent income here). But remember, narrowing in on who you serve will really clarify things for you as you create streams of income. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the victories, and never lose sight of the incredible impact you're making on those you serve.
As you embark on this journey of self-discovery and reinvention, know that you are not alone. The Find Your Ideal Student challenge in the guide section here is available to help you in this, and I am available to work on helping you hone in on this person, cheering you on as you build a personal brand!
The Role of Community: Building a Support System for Music Educator Moms
Being a music educator mom comes with its unique set of challenges. Balancing the demands of a teaching career, nurturing a family, and pursuing personal passions can be overwhelming. Let's explore the indispensable role of community in the life of a music educator mom and how building a strong support system can be a game-changer.
1. Connect with Fellow Music Educator Moms:
Reach out to other music educator moms in your local community or online. Sharing experiences, tips, and challenges with those who understand the intricacies of both music education and motherhood can be immensely comforting. Attend local events, join online forums, and foster connections that go beyond professional networking.
2. Create a Collaborative Learning Environment:
Establish a collaborative learning environment where music educator moms can exchange teaching strategies, resources, and creative ideas. This not only enriches your teaching methods but also creates a space for mutual growth and inspiration and is especially important for freelance teachers!
3. Organize Supportive Playgroups for Children:
Coordinate playgroups or activities where music educator moms can bring their children. This not only provides an opportunity for your kids to interact and play but also allows you to bond with other teacher moms. Building these connections can lead to shared childcare responsibilities, easing the load for everyone involved!
4. Attend Professional Development Workshops Together:
Explore professional development opportunities tailored for music educators. Attend workshops or conferences together to enhance your teaching skills and stay updated on industry trends. Sharing these experiences with other music educator moms can foster a sense of professional camaraderie while also allowing our shared knowledge and experience to bolster one another. We're better together!
5. Establish a Virtual Support Network:
In today's digital age, geographical distances should not hinder connections. Create a virtual support network through social media groups or messaging apps, or join Freelance Music Teacher Moms already set up! This platform can serve as a quick resource for advice, encouragement, and a virtual shoulder to lean on during challenging times.
Navigating the intersection of music education and motherhood is undoubtedly a complex journey. By actively building a community of like-minded individuals, you not only enrich your professional life but also create a valuable support system that understands and celebrates the unique challenges and triumphs of being a music educator mom. Together, we can combine professional and personal life, creating a space for both support and encouragement.
Navigating the Challenges of Inconsistent Income: Financial Tips by a Freelancer for Freelancers
For many individuals, the allure of freelancing lies in the promise of flexibility, autonomy, and pursuing one's passions on their own terms. However, the transition from a traditional 9-to-5 job to freelancing comes with its own set of challenges, chief among them being the uncertainty of inconsistent income. Balancing the demands of work, family, and financial stability can feel like walking a tightrope without a safety net. And if you're like me, this was one of the main concerns I had with making the leap.
Fear not, for there are strategies you can employ to navigate these concerns and thrive in your freelance endeavors. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just dipping your toes into the world of freelancing, these financial tips are tailored to help you weather the storms of inconsistent income. I implemented these upon making the transition, and it was overall very smooth.
- Build an Emergency Fund: Start by establishing a buffer fund to cover essential expenses during lean months. Aim to save enough to cover three to six months' worth of living expenses, providing a safety net to fall back on when work might be more scarce.
- Embrace Budgeting: Take control of your finances by creating a detailed budget that accounts for both fixed and variable expenses. Prioritize essential costs while identifying areas where you can cut back or optimize spending. Base your budget off of a low month so that you are not surprised by the low months and are able to save for the low months during the higher months.
- Diversify Your Income: Explore multiple revenue streams within your freelance niche to mitigate the impact of inconsistent income. Consider offering additional services, products, or leveraging passive income streams to supplement your primary source of revenue (this is where the GOLD of HBR comes into play! Message me the word "HBR" to learn more!)
- Establish Clear Payment Terms: Set clear payment terms and policies with your clients to ensure timely and consistent compensation. Consider implementing upfront deposits, milestone payments, late fees, and/or invoicing reminders to maintain a steady cash flow.
- Plan for Taxes: As a freelancer, you're responsible for managing your own taxes. Set aside a portion of your income each month for taxes, keeping track of deductible business expenses and maximizing tax-saving opportunities. I have been asked about my system for this a lot lately. Would it be helpful for me to put something together for you that's customized for music teachers? Message me if so and let me know.
- Fair Rates: Know your worth and advocate for fair compensation for your services. Research industry and local standards, communicate the value you bring to your clients, and don't be afraid to negotiate rates that reflect your expertise and experience.
- Invest in Continuous Learning: Stay ahead of the curve by investing in professional development and expanding your skill set. Allocate time and resources for courses, workshops, or certifications that enhance your marketability and open doors to new opportunities. I have a few recommendations for this musically and entrepreneurally (yes, I just made up a word, ha!) if you need!
- Prioritize Work-Life Balance: Maintain boundaries between work and personal life to prevent run-down fatigue and maintain overall well-being. Schedule regular breaks, establish a dedicated workspace, and prioritize self-care activities to recharge and stay productive.
For a few more practical how-tos including explanation of some of the above, check out my Self-Employed Music Teacher Budgeting Tips!
Freelancing offers unparalleled freedom and flexibility, but it also requires discipline, resilience, and careful financial planning if you're the main source of income for your family. By implementing these financial tips and embracing the ups and downs of freelancing, you can navigate the challenges of inconsistent income with confidence and build a sustainable and fulfilling freelance career. I have, and you can too!
Remember, you're not alone on this journey. Reach out to fellow local freelancers, join online communities, and seek mentorship to share experiences, gain insights, and support one another along the way. Here's to embracing the freelance life and charting your own path to success!
As a Christian mom, "Hunt, Gather, Parent" by Michaeleen Doucleff struck a chord with my values rooted in Christian teachings. The book takes readers on a journey across cultures and time, introducing parenting strategies that align surprisingly pretty well, for the most part, with biblical principles. One of the key takeaways for me was the emphasis on emotional control, where parents model the art of regulating emotions to reduce tantrums in children. This resonates deeply with the biblical concept of patience and self-control, virtues we aim to instill in our little ones (by the Holy Spirit's help as parents and hopefully also for our children one day).
Doucleff's exploration of autonomy and allowing children to safely navigate risks also resonates with the Christian belief in empowering our children while providing guidance. The book encourages a delicate balance between granting autonomy and ensuring a safe space for exploration, mirroring the Christian approach to guiding our children towards responsible decision-making within the framework of faith. The idea of valuing children's and adults' attention and honoring them by not interrupting or distracting makes a lot of sense.
The emphasis on motivating children without resorting to bribes or threats aligns with the Christian value of nurturing intrinsic motivation and a sense of duty. It reminded me of biblical teachings on the importance of cultivating a generous and helpful spirit in our children, encouraging them to contribute positively to their communities. Along with this, she talks about praise and the issues it can create for children. I liked that she talks about lowering the amount of praise from parents. Giving thoughtful feedback or pointing out their maturity to benefit children is more work for parents, but so much more motivational.
I also really liked the emphasis on community and family -- parents and grandparents and aunts and uncles all invested in the children together, training them up in helpfulness (seeing a need and meeting it), taking care of younger siblings, and choosing activities that all members of the family participate in rather than child-centered activities (which she defines as activities we would only do if we had a child to take vs an activity we'd do regardless of if a child was along).
One point where my perspective differed was in the notion of not disciplining at all and allowing children to hit you (for example) without any response, ignoring it. As a Christian parent, I believe in the importance of loving discipline as Scripture says. Yet, the book's emphasis on controlling one's own frustration before addressing a child's behavior resonated strongly. This aligns perfectly with what the Bible warns about avoiding the pitfalls of disciplining in anger.
"Hunt, Gather, Parent" not only provides practical strategies and tools for our parenting, but also prompts reflective consideration of our own behaviors as parents. The insights gleaned from diverse cultures serve as a valuable complement to Western parenting principles, offering a broader perspective on raising considerate, responsible, and compassionate children. This book serves as a helpful resource, inviting parents to explore alternative approaches to parenting than the typical Western approach.
Setting Up a Budget-Friendly Home Music Teaching Studio: Practical Tips and Tricks
Establishing a home music teaching studio can be an exciting and fulfilling venture. Fortunately, with the accessibility of affordable equipment and creative solutions, creating a music teaching space on a budget is very feasible. Whether you're teaching voice, theory, or an instrument, here are some valuable tips and tricks to help you set up your home teaching studio without breaking the bank.
1. Identify Your Primary Teaching Focus
Begin by clearly defining the scope of your music teaching studio. Are you primarily offering instrumental lessons, vocal coaching, or a combination of both? Does the space you are creating need to accommodate any other types of instruction? Are you teaching virtually or in-person or both? Small groups or 1-1? Identifying these factors will guide your equipment choices and help you allocate your budget effectively.
2. Optimize Your Teaching Space
Creating an inviting and conducive teaching environment doesn't necessarily require a dedicated room. Find a quiet and well-lit corner in your home where you can conduct lessons without distractions. Consider factors like seating arrangements, lighting, and the placement of instruments or teaching aids to enhance the overall learning experience. Consider that while sound proofing is not necessary, think about what else is happening around you and where that sound may carry.
3. Invest in Essential Teaching Tools
While high-end equipment can be enticing, focus on acquiring essential tools that align with your teaching goals. A reliable instrument, a comfortable seating arrangement, and music stands (these have held up for me for years) are fundamental. Look for affordable, yet durable options to equip your studio adequately. Consider used options too!
4. Leverage Online Teaching Platforms
Incorporate online teaching platforms and resources into your studio setup. Utilize video conferencing tools like Zoom, Skype, or Google Meet for virtual lessons. The CRM system I utilize is multi-functional and comes with free upgraded Zoom capabilities. These platforms are often free or have budget-friendly options, making them a cost-effective way to expand your reach and offer remote lessons.
5. Seek Affordable Instrument Rentals
For students who are just starting, consider recommending affordable instrument rental options. Many music stores offer rental services for various instruments, allowing students to explore their interests without a significant upfront investment. This approach is particularly beneficial for parents who may be hesitant to purchase expensive instruments for beginners.
6. Create DIY Teaching Aids
Enhance your teaching materials with creative do-it-yourself (DIY) solutions. Craft visual aids, flashcards, or simple teaching props (I have a bunch of my favorites listed here) to make lessons more engaging. There are numerous online templates and tutorials that can guide you in creating effective and budget-friendly teaching resources.
7. Collaborate with Other Educators
Connect with fellow music educators and explore collaborative opportunities. Sharing resources like choral scores, lesson plans, or organizing group workshops can help reduce individual costs. Collaborative efforts not only enhance the learning experience but also foster a sense of community among educators, a win-win!
8. Utilize Free Educational Platforms
Take advantage of free educational resources available online. Platforms like musictheory.net, IMSLP, and YouTube offer a wealth of educational content, including music theory lessons, sheet music, and instructional videos. Incorporating these resources into your teaching materials can supplement your lessons or classes in an engaging way without additional expenses.
9. Flexible Furniture Solutions
When it comes to studio furniture, opt for budget-friendly and versatile options. Folding chairs, portable music stands, and storage solutions that serve multiple purposes can help you maximize your budget and adapt your teaching space to different lesson formats. I have a colleague who even has a giant bean bag in his waiting area for students to enjoy while they wait their turn for their lesson. Feel free to have fun with it!
10. Embrace a Gradual Setup Approach
Building a home music teaching studio on a budget is a step-by-step process. Start with the essentials and gradually expand to fit your needs or your style as your student base grows. This approach allows you to invest wisely in response to the evolving needs of your teaching practice.
Creating a budget-friendly home music teaching studio is a fulfilling endeavor that can positively impact the learning experience for both you and your students. By identifying your teaching focus, optimizing your space, and leveraging affordable resources, you can establish a studio that fosters musical growth and creativity without exceeding your budget constraints.
Playful Learning in Music Education: Unleashing Creativity with Unconventional Tools 🎶
In the world of music education, embracing a bit of playfulness can be the key to unlocking creativity and engagement. Step into my classroom, where the usual suspects of musical instruction take a back seat to some unexpected stars – googly eye rings, rubber chickens, and whirly toys. Let's dive into how these 3 unconventional tools infuse our lessons with excitement and bring out the best in our students:
1. Googly Eyes: The Improvisation Catalyst
When it comes to teaching improvisation, googly eye rings take center stage in my lessons and rehearsals. Improvisation can be intimidating, but these wiggly-eyed companions make it feel like a game. Students wear the googly eyes and take turns improvising, adding a lighthearted element to the process. It's amazing how a touch of whimsy can boost confidence and creativity in musical expression, allowing students to feel safe "behind" a puppet or guise of sorts as they try something more vulnerable like creating new tunes with their voice.
2. Rubber Chickens: Shaping Vowels for Beautiful Harmony
Creating a harmonious choral sound involves mastering vowel shapes. Enter the rubber chicken, our surprising ally in this endeavor. As students sing higher notes, we talk about vowel shapes and use our rubber chicken (affectionately named Drumstick by my middle schoolers!) as a visual reminder. Sometimes he participates in games as well... the sky is the limit!
3. Whirly Toys: Elevating Range and Tone Dynamics
Whirly helicopter toys take vocal exercises to a whole new level, literally! As students take turns during warm-ups making the whirly toy go high into the air, they follow it with their voice in a glissando. This helps students explore their vocal range and tone in a playful way so they aren't thinking about how high they are going, or shouting when they go higher. The visual element keeps them engaged!
Play in Learning: Where Hard Work is a Form of Play
Beyond the specific lessons, these unconventional tools contribute to an environment where play is embraced as a powerful learning tool. In our musical journey, hard work becomes play and play helps us achieve hard work. Each challenge transforms into an opportunity for discovery and growth. The unexpected elements brought by these tools encourage students to explore, take risks, and find joy in the process of making music.
What creative methods do you use to make music lessons engaging and fun for your students?
The Struggles of Music Teachers: Unveiling the Urgency for Change
In the education world, music teachers find themselves facing urgent challenges that are pushing them to the brink. Recent sobering statistics reveal a concerning trend, shedding light on the fact that a significant number of music educators are seriously contemplating leaving the profession.
1. Overwhelmed and Underprepared:
The statistics indicate that a mere 19.8% of music teachers feel moderately well-prepared or very prepared for their job. This suggests a glaring gap in the training and support provided to these educators. Music is a complex art, and teachers require comprehensive preparation to navigate the intricacies of imparting musical knowledge pedagogically effectively.
2. Lack of Recognition and Value:
A staggering 44.7% of music teachers express feeling undervalued, with some stating that they are only perceived as a preparation time for other teachers. This lack of recognition not only undermines the dedication of these educators but also contributes to a demoralizing work environment. Appreciation and acknowledgment are essential elements in fostering a positive and thriving teaching community.
3. Unmanageable Workloads:
The workload of music teachers is revealed in the statistic that 41% of them teach between 301 to 500 students, and some teach as many as 700 students! Such a large number of students per teacher is undoubtedly overwhelming and can compromise the quality of education provided. It also raises questions about the feasibility of creating meaningful connections with each student, hindering the holistic development of aspiring musicians.
4. The Ominous Cloud of Burnout:
The cumulative effect of these challenges is reflected in the alarming statistic that 45.5% of music teachers have contemplated leaving the profession. The specter of burnout (or what some would call compassion fatigue) looms large over these educators, driven by a combination of inadequate preparation, lack of recognition, and unmanageable workloads on top of increased student needs and demands placed on teachers outside of their necessary duties.
The Call for Change:
In the face of these statistics, it is imperative for educational institutions, policymakers, and the community at large to heed the call for change. Investing in comprehensive training programs for music educators, fostering a culture of appreciation, and addressing unmanageable workloads are essential steps in ensuring the sustainability of the music education profession.
While as a society, we must recognize the invaluable role that music teachers play in shaping the next generation of musicians and nurturing a love for the arts, we do not see society taking any actual steps in a positive direction to address these issues, which means that music teachers need to make some potentially tough decisions.
Empowering Music Educators: A Call to Action
As we delve into the challenges music teachers face, it's crucial to recognize the resilience and potential within our dedicated community. While systemic changes are necessary and unlikely, there's also this opportunity for music educators to take charge of their own destinies, especially in a world where immediate societal shifts look to be lacking.
Being self-employed allows music teachers to play to their own strengths, avoid the downsides to public education, and specialize in niche areas, catering to specific interests or skill levels. Whether it's music theory, instrument-specific instruction, community ensembles, or composition, educators can carve out a unique space for themselves, attracting students seeking specialized expertise. This is a large part of what I do through my streamlined method as I work 1-1 with teachers to customize their business and create an exit strategy, much like I did for myself. This is key because it emphasizes the unique approach each teacher brings to their craft.
In our ever-changing world, continuous learning is key. Music educators can enhance their skills and stay relevant by exploring new techniques, staying updated on industry trends, and incorporating innovative teaching methods. Music teachers would also do well to take a business course, particularly one that is updated continually with the changing times and trends (I have a great one I can recommend – ask for more info!). This commitment to growth not only benefits educators but also enriches the learning experience for their students.
The path to freelance success for music teachers is a multifaceted journey that involves personal empowerment, collaboration, specialization, and a commitment to continuous learning while implementing strategies that work for building a business in our 21st century world. By seizing the opportunities offered by the digital era and actively participating in professional development, music educators can not only find fulfillment in their careers but also contribute to the transformation of the music education landscape for generations to come without dealing with the burnout of the system. It's time for music teachers to embrace their potential, both as independent professionals and as catalysts for positive change in the world of education!
How to Set Boundaries and Avoid Burnout in Your Freelance Teaching Journey
Embarking on a freelance teaching journey can be an exhilarating yet challenging transition, especially when balancing the demands of a career, motherhood, and attempting time for self-care. If you find yourself in a whirlwind of exhaustion and uncertainty, you're not alone. If you're a music teacher mom who dreams of breaking free from the hamster wheel of a 9-5, pursuing her passion for music, and creating a thriving freelance business, keep reading. Let's delve into practical strategies for setting boundaries and steering clear of burnout in this exciting new chapter that I wish I knew sooner!
1. Define Your Priorities:
Begin by identifying your core priorities. As a mom, your family's well-being is probably at the top of the list. Allocate time for your children, partner, and yourself. Recognize that it's okay to prioritize your needs alongside your professional pursuits, even if some of your professional pursuits do line up at times with something you need to prioritize for yourself. I know I am a much better mom because I work 2 days/week!
2. Establish Clear Work Hours:
Freelancing often blurs the lines between work and personal life. Set specific work hours to create a clear boundary between your professional and family life. Communicate these hours with your clients and stick to them as closely as possible. Dedicate uninterrupted time to your family when you're having family time rather than getting pulled away by work emails or other obligations. Utilizing tech tools like a scheduler have REALLY helped me with this!
3. Delegate and Seek Support:
Recognize that you can't do everything alone! This was a hard one for me at first but has made a world of a difference. Delegate tasks both at home and in your business. Whether it's hiring a virtual assistant, seeking help with household chores, or involving your partner in childcare responsibilities... building a support system for your family and your business to run efficiently and effectively is crucial.
4. Prioritize Self-Care:
Fulfilling your role as a music teacher, mom, and freelancer requires a healthy and energized you. Schedule regular self-care activities, whether it's a short walk, meditation, or indulging in a hobby (my current one is homemade yogurt with this starter and sourdough! Haha) Taking care of yourself is not a luxury but a necessity. If you're noticing you're dealing with more fatigue, sleep issues, irritability, or sluggishness than normal, perhaps consider trying out the 11 Day Jumpstart to lower chronic inflammation. It helped me SO much!
5. Set Up Systems for Success:
Freelancing can be unpredictable, but setting realistic and achievable goals as well as creating efficient systems to accomplish those goals is key to maintaining balance. Break down larger objectives into smaller, manageable tasks, allowing you to celebrate victories along the way. If you need help with organization of your personal life and business while still living in the unpredictability of family life and creativity (I found after becoming a mom, I really needed someone to guide me in this aspect), I have an amazing friend named Danelle Fowler who is available for 1-1s to drill down on this with you. You can reserve a time on her schedule here!
Which of these practical strategies for setting boundaries and steering clear of burnout do you think you most need to implement for yourself? Come chat about it in Freelance Music Teacher Moms as we figure out this delicate balance of creative work and family life!
Music Education in a Shifting Educational Landscape
In recent years, the world has witnessed a significant shift in education models, with more families exploring alternative approaches to education such as homeschooling. As traditional classroom structures evolve, so too must the realm of music education. Many music teachers now find themselves in a unique position to tap into and create opportunities for students engaged in alternative education models where the opportunities may be decreasing in the traditional schooling model. Let's explore the changing landscape of education and discuss how music teachers can adapt to better serve the needs of these students.
The Rise of Alternative Education Models:
The rise of homeschooling, online learning, and other alternative education models has been fueled by various factors. Families are increasingly seeking personalized and flexible approaches that cater to their unique circumstances and preferences. We've seen a compound annual growth rate of 10% since 2016 for homeschooling alone, and this doesn't even include the other models! This shift has opened up new possibilities for students to explore their interests in depth, and music is no exception.
Adapting Music Education:
Music teachers play a crucial role in adapting to this changing educational landscape. Here are some key ideas for tapping into and creating opportunities for students engaged in alternative education models:
- Flexibility in Curriculum: Recognize the diverse needs and schedules of homeschooled, online, and hybrid students. Consider developing flexible music education curricula that can be tailored to individual learning styles and time constraints. This has been a key area of research, growth, and implementation for me over the past 5 years.
- Utilizing Technology: Embrace technology to connect with students in virtual spaces. Offering virtual ensemble experiences and collaborative projects allows students to engage with music from their own time and space constraints.
- Community Involvement: Foster a sense of community among students through online forums, virtual performances, and in-person collaborative events. This not only enhances the social aspect of music education but also provides a platform for students to showcase their talents, allowing them to thrive in a way that their alternative educational opportunities may not afford in other subject areas.
- Adaptive Teaching Methods: Recognize that alternative education students may have varied learning styles and preferences. Explore different teaching methods, incorporating visual aids, interactive activities, and project-based learning to keep students engaged.
- Supporting Parents as Educators: Acknowledge the role of parents in alternative education settings and provide resources to support their efforts. Consider workshops, online resources, and guides that empower parents to facilitate their child's musical journey. This is also a big area for growth in the near future!
A final note:
Bridging the Economic Gap: Address affordability concerns. Make music education accessible by offering cost-effective options, group lessons, or community-based programs. Ensure that financial constraints don't limit a student's access to the world of music. This has been an effort of mine over recent years too, with great success!
Bridging the Economic Gap: Address affordability concerns. Make music education accessible by offering cost-effective options, group lessons, or community-based programs. Ensure that financial constraints don't limit a student's access to the world of music. This has been an effort of mine over recent years too, with great success!
Ultimately, the changing landscape of education brings both challenges and opportunities for music teachers. By adapting teaching methods, embracing technology, and actively creating affordable opportunities, educators can ensure that students in alternative education models receive a rich and fulfilling musical education. As we navigate these changes, the harmonious future of music education lies in our ability to evolve alongside the shifting educational paradigms while bridging the economic gap for all aspiring musicians.
What ways have you changed and evolved what you do to meet this educational shift?
What ways have you changed and evolved what you do to meet this educational shift?
"Mystery Musician" is a term I came up for a way to implement a small piece of my classroom management system.
Can I just call out something I HATE about the modern educational movement? I HATE prize boxes and reward systems. There, I said it. BUT, that said, I do utilize one in a very rudimentary way that focuses on developing habits in my choir singers that I want to develop. In my experience, this has worked best for grades 3rd-7th, but you could likely adapt it for older or younger singers.
Read to the end for some winner items I've included in my "Mystery Musician" box that my students love, is NOT edible, and doesn't break the bank.
But first. What is the "Mystery Musican" and how do I use it?
A "Mystery Musician" is someone who...
- Is organized. They have their materials (music folder and pencil) and come prepared to rehearsal if they were given a practice assignment.
- Works hard. They use our time well during rehearsal.
- Stays focused. He or she does not distract others during class but pays attention to what page we are on.
- Helps others. If their neighbor doesn't know what page we are on or where I am at, they help them find their spot without causing others to get distracted.
- Tells the story of the piece of music. They express emotions when they sing, making the audience feel happy, sad, or excited based on what we are singing. They use a smile or engaged face to draw the audience in!
- Follow the leader. They follow their conductor's directions really well. It's important for everyone to listen and work together as a team!
- Are curious! Mystery musicians are always learning. Their goal is to become even better singers! There is always something new to learn or discover.
There you have it! I reinforce these characteristics with my students during class by saying things like, "Wow, I see the mystery musician is sitting tall with eyes on the conductor, ready to see when she will start the piece." or maybe, "Thank you, mystery musician, for remembering to bring your music folder with you before class started! If you forgot yours, no biggie, go grab it from your bag after warm-ups are done."
This allows me to teach these habits to my singers without singling anyone out in either a positive or negative way -- and it keeps my students focused on what they are doing rather than what someone else did or didn't do. Many students may be demonstrating mystery musician traits that day, but I try to think of who that singer is as soon as they walk in the door. If that person doesn't really demonstrate these traits that day, I just pick someone else at the end of class who was and circle back around to that student another day.
So, do you do something similar in your classroom? If so, how is it similar or different to how I do it!
Oh! And bonus: 4 Winner Items I add to my box that students LOVE:
1) TINY duckies! I don't know why, but my students are OBSESSED with these cute little guys.
2) Cute erasers -- these are always a hit! I look for different ones each time I need a restock to change things up.
3) Music stickers -- can't get these anywhere else they know of (not in bulk!)
4) Jumping frog toys -- so simple, and so fun!
These have lasted my box YEARS, and I just add a new item or replenish a favorite item around once per year to change things up and keep it fresh. Cheap and fun!
Embarking on the self-employed journey is like setting sail in the vast sea of creativity. To navigate the waves, a resilient and growth-oriented mindset is your anchor. Here are some down-to-earth mindset tips for the creative souls embracing the unpredictable path of self-employment (like I did!) -- things I wish I knew sooner!
- Embrace Growth Mindset: Think of setbacks as plot twists in your creative story. Roll with the punches a bit—see challenges not as roadblocks but as detours leading to unexpected inspiration. Let the journey be just as important as the finished masterpiece.
- Sketch Your Goals: Self-employment can get messy, especially for creative people. Jot down clear, achievable goals. Break down your big ideas into actionable steps, infusing variety to keep things lively if that's your thing! Tailor your plan to fit your unique strengths, ensuring that your goals become a playground for your creativity rather than a mundane to-do list that you don't even feel like doing.
- Take Creative Breathers: Creativity thrives in a well-rested mind. Take breaks to recharge and let ideas percolate -- it's great to use a notebook or the notes app on your phone to keep track of these ideas! Balance work and life like a pro—your best work often emerges from a rested and rejuvenated mind. Remember, you can't force creativity; sometimes, stepping away allows it to flow back naturally.
- Bounce Back Like a Champ: Resilience is your secret weapon. Treat setbacks as mere hiccups. Bounce back, adapt, and let each challenge make you stronger. A resilient mindset is your greatest ally in the unpredictable world of self-employment. And if you feel like this is a struggle for you, Big Think transformed my mind around these ideas!
- Learn as You Go: Think of your creative journey as an ongoing workshop. Stay curious, adapt to new trends, and keep learning. The more skills you add to your toolkit, the better equipped you'll be to paint your entrepreneurial canvas. I love that HBR (my business mentor's course) is constantly being updated and added to (which I have access to for life!) so that I can keep learning and growing and adapt to new things happening in the market, social media, and world.
- Surround Yourself with Positivity: Create a vibe that fuels your creativity. Build a network of fellow creatives and mentors who understand the self-employment world (join us music teacher moms over here doing just that if you'd like!). Positivity is contagious—let it be the background music to your creative process.
As a creative in the world of self-employment, simplicity and practicality are your best tools to allow the creativity to thrive while also getting done what's needed to make income. Sketch your goals with flair, adding variety to keep things exciting while tailoring plans to fit your strengths. Roll with the punches, take creative breathers without forcing creativity, bounce back with resilience, learn as you go, and surround yourself with positivity. Your creative journey is a work in progress—make it uniquely yours!
Starting a self-employed music business was the best decision I ever made for myself and my family! I desperately needed out of the 9-5 world. It is very rewarding but also a challenging endeavor that can have implications on mental health, especially when you're running the show on your own or "flying solo." You cannot treat your business the same way you did a 9-5 job.
Here are 5 tips I wish someone had given me before I went freelance, tips to help you be successful with your business and care for yourself mentally at the same time.
- Set Realistic but Big-Reaching Expectations: Acknowledge that starting and running a business is a gradual process, and success may not happen overnight. Set realistic and achievable goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Celebrate small victories and understand that setbacks are a natural part of the entrepreneurial journey, but know that ultimately the sky is the limit! Taking Big Think was a HUGE help for me on this part of the journey, especially when I began doubting myself.
- Establish a Routine: Maintain a balanced routine that includes dedicated time for work, rest, and self-care. Establishing a consistent schedule can help create a sense of stability and predictability, reducing stress and anxiety associated with the uncertainties of entrepreneurship. Creating "must-dos" versus just a "to-do" list can really streamline this process.
- Seek Support: Don't hesitate to reach out for support from friends, family, or fellow entrepreneurs (this is why I offer Music Leadership Coaching and the Freelance Music Teacher Moms group!). Sharing your challenges and successes with others can provide valuable perspectives and emotional support. Consider joining a business community or networking group locally to connect with like-minded individuals who can offer guidance and encouragement too.
- Prioritize Self-Care: Make self-care a priority by incorporating activities that promote mental and physical well-being. This may include regular exercise, sufficient sleep, healthy eating habits, and mindfulness practices. The Jumpstart was super key for me in making this simple and attainable rather than overwhelming. Taking care of your physical health can positively impact your mental resilience and ability to navigate the demands of entrepreneurship.
- Learn to Delegate: Recognize that you can't do everything on your own. Delegate tasks that are outside your expertise or that can be handled by others, whether it's hiring employees, outsourcing certain functions, streamlining processes (I love to help people with how to do this!), or seeking support from business partners. This not only reduces your workload but also helps prevent burnout.
Remember that your mental health is crucial for your overall well-being and business success. Taking proactive steps to manage stress, maintain balance, and seek support when needed can contribute to a healthier and more sustainable entrepreneurial journey. I have dealt with some of these myself and can tell you -- starting off on the right foot can make a world of difference when beginning freelance work! And if you find that stress and anxiety are significantly impacting your mental health, consider seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor.
