Yesterday, I logged into an app, but instead of seeing the usual screen, I got this: I was about to flip out. But then, underneath that was another hypnotic and surprisingly motivating message: “As you read this message, please take a moment to pause and breathe. Notice the sensations in your body and the rhythm of your breath. Remind yourself that you are not alone in wanting to try out [the app]. Many others are interested in it as well. Be patient and know that [the app] is doing its best to accommodate everyone. Trust that the right time for you will come. In the meantime, focus on your breath and stay present.” Suddenly, I went from flipping out to chill. It got me thinking: What if I could have that message handy whenever my frustration, defensiveness, perfectionism, or anxiety was triggered?
Life serves up these moments daily. We can’t always control them, but we can control how we respond (or so they say). What if we could carry a magic message like this to prevent ourselves from ever becoming reactive and, in so doing, wasting our time and energy or alienating others… Mental Health is important for musicians. I thought you might find it helpful. So, I tweaked it below in case you want to keep it handy: “As you read this message, please take a moment to pause and breathe. Notice the sensations in your body and the rhythm of your breath. Remind yourself that you are enough. Be patient and know that the universe is doing its best to accommodate everyone. Trust that the right time for you will come. In the meantime, focus on your breath and stay present.” Copy, tweak, print, tattoo, or use as you like. |
