Big Goals and Special Events
Over the last couple of weeks, we have been discussing in parent sessions, the Upbeat, lessons and groups, how to build more motivation for ourselves, for our adult students or for our children. This week, I wanted to acknowledge that there can be great value with extrinsic rewards to build motivation. One must be thoughtful when using extrinsic factors (rewards, prizes, goals, performances, etc.) to motivate practicing so that it does not backfire. We need to be careful that when the extrinsic reward is received, does all motivation disappear?
A positive reason for promising a prize or special treat for practicing is that some individuals lack confidence in themselves. The extrinsic motivation helps to refocus the attention of that person simply on getting things done, to putting in the time, and sometimes by making practicing and music learning a priority in their lives. Sometimes having a big goal like finishing a book for a graduation, or promising oneself the purchase of a better instrument can be hugely motivating and thus the practicing becomes prioritized. To ensure this is a more lasting benefit, observations and positive comments all along the way can build confidence. Comments like "I have noticed how practicing every day is keeping you moving forward more easily," can be quite helpful. Could we assist with reinforcing the idea that when one can prioritize activities, one reaches the desired result? This helps to overcome the self-doubt that might have been present.
Setting priorities and time management are extremely difficult tasks for all of us in this world of rapid paced multi-tasking and having a high demand for excellence in all domains of one's life. This naturally adds pressure that makes it more difficult to concentrate and does not allow us to be our best. Champions of high pressure sports like figure skating and tennis, often have psychologists as part of the coaching team. Are we adding to the pressure, or can we acknowledge its existence that provides an empathetic atmosphere?
Simply highlighting a goal and giving it a finite time line by placing a deadline, can de dangerous because the intensity of the work being done will ultimately reach a conclusion with the arrival of the "event date". Does the relief of reaching the current goal exclude the creation of a new goal? Pacing is key, and that is why we try to adapt to each student's pace of learning. We want to encourage steady paced, steady level of mild intensity so that practicing can be integrated into one's lifetime, not just a short period of time. Being aware of this intensity can be handled positively by observing that students may have more time in the summer to be intense in practicing and may get more done. During the school year with more activities competing for the student's attention, truthfully being aware that goals need to take into account what results are feasible with less time. Nevertheless, these could be equally celebrated and acknowledged accomplishments.
In the Suzuki environment, we often say that progress has its visible moments of improvements, and other moments where progress is seemingly plateaued. However, like the seed that is planted in the ground and given water and sun daily, one may not see the growth until months later when the first bud appears. If one stops watering and giving sunlight to the seed, it will not grow at all. Having those moments when an extrinsic reward is part of the proof that a student can reach a milestone or important goal is similar to allowing the parent to share in showing appreciation and praise for the hard work that has been completed. Going on vacation every year does not necessarily mean that one does not also love one's work. We can appreciate and accept these rewards as we recognize that enjoying the fruits of our labor is part of our human nature. Thus, showing praise, joy and appreciation for our children's practicing can equally be the sun and water that will lead to our students' flowering accomplishments.
The hardest part of motivation is discovering what works for oneself and what works for another. These may not be the same style and thus the path to discovery can be an adventure in our musical journey. Nevertheless, our Suzuki calendar is full of special events and special goals to make learning more fun. Spooky Suzuki last Sunday was one. Solo Recitals this weekend and next month, graduations in various instruments, the return of our Playathon and a Piano Group Concert are all coming up!
Sachiko
