By Michaud Savage

Sometimes we get tired when we're practicing. Maybe your hands starts to hurt, or maybe you feel like you're not getting anywhere, or maybe you just feel tired after your day. That's all okay, and it's something everyone struggles with at some point. You are not alone on your journey with music!

Firstly, it's okay to take a little break. One of the tricks I do for myself when I'm in a practice funk is to set a timer. For me, I usually set it at 20 minutes, and I'll do it for a lot of reasons. First, it helps me keep track of time and helps give me a sense of whether or not I've been working on something for too long or too short of a time, based on the other things I need to do. Second, it helps give me a short-term goal to reach for when I'm feeling low in spirits, and a little break or reward can help me feel better during long periods of practice. Sometimes on my break I just need to find something to take my mind off of the task at hand, so I can come back feeling fresh with the material.

Secondly, there are plenty of greats who've made use of this technique in practicing with greater focus, and for longer intervals of time. One of my teachers, Peter Mack, introduced me to this technique and it's been working out well for him.

Thirdly, we are only human. Sometimes we need to stop and take a break. And then get back to work. :D

Have fun practicing!!!!