I have recently joined (as have hundreds around the world) a ukulele group. We are all enthusiastic and love the experience of communal music. However I am not that skilled having never played a stringed instrument in my life ,even if the uke is one of the simplest to learn.
I also have the added problem (or excuse) that I’m left handed so I have had my uke altered to make it easier for me to play.
Here is the problem-the rest of the group look at each others fingers (you need to trust me here it is part of the learning!) to help them keep up with the new chords we learn each time we meet. It doesn’t make sense to me as mine is really upside down and back to front. Needless to say I am persisting and sort of managing to keep up.
The better player in out group has suggested (well told me really) to ”Not look where you put your fingers on the chords but just go with the music.” “What !” I replied, “I have to see where they go…” .
It was one of those moments when I realised what we ask our participants to do when we are coaching and training them in presentations. “Put down your notes”. “You will be fine without them” .”You know your stuff” etc etc.
How difficult it is to lose the ability to check and check again. Yes it interrupts the flow but it makes us feel better…even though I know it will sound better when I don’t peek.
How often do we as adults seek the comfort of what feels easier and safe? To grow and succeed we do need to leave our comfort zone and take the big step of trusting to do what we know will make a difference.
So next week with the group I will endeavour not to look …it will take masses of practice at home, a lot of big breaths, but if we are going to be the best little band in Wadestown I will need to grow with the others and step outside my comfort zone.
Stay tuned for the next chapter…