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12 Essential Habits for Smart Musicians

7. Experiment—The musicians I admire the most are incredibly curious. They don’t limit themselves to a single instrument. They are constantly applying what they’ve learned on guitar, drums or piano to other instruments. They aren’t limited by one style. They learn country riffs, jazz chords and grooves, and orchestral soundscapes. Nothing is above them—they are bold and work hard until they figure it out. But also nothing is below them—they are never too cool for a certain musical expression.

Feeling stuck, bland or bored with your music? Try something you’ve never tried before. Then make that a regular habit.

8. Show Up—A musician grows to become great because they are kind of obsessed. I doubt a great musician would ever tell you they lived a balanced life. No, they were most likely obsessive about their instrument—showing up when they didn’t feel like it. Working hard when everyone else was hanging out. It’s what they do. Sure, you don’t need to give up your family and friends for your instrument. But there will be seasons of intensity. And those who excel are those who aren’t afraid to show up and keep showing up. Gabriel Wilson has some great thoughts on this.

9. Don’t Feel the Need to Show Off—Musician, can we agree on something? Stop feeling the need to prove yourself. Music isn’t a way to prove your worth. It’s a medium for you to communicate, to bless the world. Stop glancing out of the corner of your eye every time you play your instrument to see who’s admiring you. Love the music for the music itself and seek to serve people with it. You don’t have to prove yourself. We love you as you are. Good? OK, let’s move on.

10. Look Awkward and Quirky—Of course, looking awkward on purpose is lame. Don’t do that. But my favorite musicians have this look about them when they are in the zone. Sometimes they look like they’re in pain. They have strange movements. Their faces are hilarious. Why is this a value? Because when you feel the music—truly feel it—there will be expression. You won’t even realize you’re doing it, but the music has become such a part of you that it is expressed in more than just your fingers. You can physically see it.

Lesson learned? Feel. Feel deeply. Not just in your hands but through your entire body. I know that sounds weird, but trust me, you’ll know what I’m talking about once you experience it.

11. Communicate Something—Sure, lyrics communicate. But music itself communicates. When The Edge plays guitar, he communicates something to his audience. When Yo Yo Ma holds a cello, we all feel something. The reason you practice your instrument is so that the combination of theory and technique collide to communicate to people. What are you trying to say?

12. Watch Their Mouth—A smart musician doesn’t talk a big game. They don’t elevate themselves in people’s minds with how great they are. They just play the music. They simply do their thing. They don’t feel the need to broadcast their accolades or spotlight their experiences. The music is enough. The blood, sweat and tears from experience speaks for itself. Music is the joy, not the feedback from it.

This list could have continued. And that’s why I need your help.

What would you add to the list? Who are your favorite musicians? What do you love about them?