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Being a diligent student, you have wisely chosen to think deeply about your practice routine. In tackling problems, you take a three-cycle approach of planning, acting and reflecting.
Yet, in the reflecting stage things might be a bit foggy as to what actually defines your success – or, your need to tweak the plan. Typically, success in a regimented routine designed to improve something is defined by benchmarks alone.
Planning for success involves slowing things way down and meticulously taking them apart. Since metronome markings are mathematical, it is pretty easy to plot out a chart of tempo gradations, for example – from slow up to performance tempo – over a period of weeks.
This is the kind of planning of course that should happen before getting to the reflection stage, not after or during.
Why?
This kind of benchmarking is an example of a Key Performance Indicator and it is a way to more objectively gauge your success or failure at a task.
Documenting your performance indicators is important and can prove to be tremendously beneficial down the road – even if your indicator ends up being way off. This kind of reflection will not only improve the way you practice, but also the way you think about attacking problems and playing music with others.
Your KPI can include benchmarks, targets and time frames. Besides the technical aspects – like tempo and dynamics – be sure to experiment with writing down less tangible indicators such as:
- Feeling free and easy
- Getting the right emotional impact
Working out a plan for success is not just about the technical aspects – you want to feel good about your music-making as well, right?
