I saw an interview once of a very accomplished musician who was asked what a person should do to become a great performer.

The answers were what you might expect – start young, study with a good teacher, practice daily, focus on the basics. And of course, innate talent is helpful. Very typical advice. Work on your scales, use a metronome, spend enough time practicing every day. Super advice. I heartily agreed.

But then they were asked what an adult should do to become proficient at an instrument and I’ve got to tell you, the answer took me aback.

It was blunt: don’t bother.

I had to re-wind the video. Did I actually hear that? Don’t bother?

Yes, I actually heard that.

Unbelievable advice. Just straight up unbelievable.

Don’t bother to start playing an instrument if you’re older and you want to be any good at it. You’ll never be good at it. No chance.

It broke my heart that someone would say that, and even more so that someone would hear it and believe it.

The straight up truth is it is never too late to learn something new. It is never too late to start a new chapter, launch a new business, begin a new hobby, or live a new dream.

Not bother learning something new? Because you’ll never be “great”?

Sorry, but with all due respect I do not agree with that, and never will.

So dear you, with that dream in your heart and that passion you want to explore? Beautiful you who has that beautiful desire to learn something new?

I implore you…please, bother.

~xo,
LuAnne