Musical Honesty is the Best Polic

I believe it's very difficult for our sect of professions (the performing arts) to have realistic view of our own musicianship, dedication, and level of skill. We are taught to hone these skills to ensure that we are at the highest skill level we can be. Throughout my college experience, I have witnessed many people (including myself) become clouded with how they view their own talent. They are under the assumption that they are God's gift to music, and they deserve all the solos, etc. etc. Anyone who has been in college understands that mentality.  Don't get me wrong, having confidence in your playing ability is important, maintaining a level of self-esteem and self-worth is deeply important to being a happy musician, but it doesn't mean you shouldn't be humble.  Here are my personal tips to staying grounded, and fully understanding your own musicianship. 1. Listen      Listen to yourself play, sing, act, etc. Do you sound like your pre-conceptions? Or do you sound completely different? Identify how you would like to change your own tone, technique, etc.  2. Log your practice      Do you actually practice that much? How much time do you spend with your music? Do you find yourself scrambling to be prepared for your lessons? Be truly honest with your level of dedication to the practice room, it goes a long way! Once you come to terms with it, build time into your schedule to ensure your success in the practice room! 3. Practice smarter, not harder      Read the book, "Musician's Way" It's a very in depth book on building personal musicianship, and there are some incredible practice tips in there! Always use a metronome. 4. Don't brag      You play 40 instruments? You are better at altissimo than the other guy? You got that cool solo? You got into an honor band? Awesome! Those things are awesome, and celebrate with the closest people to you. It shouldn't be the first thing you bring up to everyone. Your excitement is awesome, but remember that bragging gives an appearance of arrogance. 5. Say thank you      When people are excited about your performing, and they congratulate you, thank them. Don't tell them it was no big deal, just thank them! 6. Practice and perform like you are not good enough      When it comes to your own personal musicianship, it should NEVER be good enough. Always aspire work harder, and be better than you were yesterday! Don't settle for a bad tone, or not knowing your scales, etc. because you don't WANT to work harder.