Tartellog

It’s the end of the year.  For those of us that live on an academic calendar that means a couple of weeks off.  While breaks can be needed, and even important, there is a danger involved.  And that leads to something I give to each student every year: The Christmas Lecture.

Usually a break starts with the best of intentions:

• “Without classes I’ll have so much time to practice.”
• “Over break I’m going to get so much done.”
• “Now that the semester is over, I can really be productive.”

But what happens is something like this:

Day 1

Well, school just got out, so taking one day off isn’t so bad.  Tomorrow I’ll get started.

Day 2

Hey, my friends just called, and we haven’t been able to spend much time together…I’ll get started tomorrow.

Day 3

My family has plans today so I probably won’t have time to practice.

Day 4

Okay, time to get back into it…right after breakfast.  Wait, I haven’t seen “The Price is Right” in years.  Drew Carey is no Bob Barker.  Hmm…there is some shopping I need to get done.  Okay then- shopping, then it’s definitely practice time.  Hey, I ran into friends at the mall.  We’re going to go see a movie.  I’ll practice first thing in the morning.

Day 5

Wow- did I really sleep until 11:00?  Let’s give Drew Carey another shot.  Nope- it’s just not the same.  Now where is my horn?  Oh, today we’re going to visit Great Aunt Ida.  She’s 112.  I’ve been hearing my whole life that I need to go, and be nice, because it just might be her last Christmas.

_______

Does any of that sound familiar?

Sometimes the break can be the hardest time to practice because you’re out of your normal schedule.  Taking a day off here and there can actually be a good idea.  That’s not what I’m talking about here.  I’m talking about one day turning into a week or more.  I want you to have an enjoyable break.  I also want you to come back to school energized, excited, and looking forward to whatever is coming next.  And I definitely want you to practice.  So here’s what you do:

Practice first thing in the morning

If you’ll set aside some time when you get up to practice, then the rest of the day is yours.  Have a great time with your friends and family while still getting some real practice time in.

Have a great break.  Enjoy the time you get to spend with your friends and family.

And practice.