Dreading Lessons?

Do you dread lessons? If you do, here are a few questions to ask yourself:

• Do I dread all lessons or just certain ones? Is it because of the subject matter/instrument or is it a student/teacher clash of personalities (or a disrespectful student)?
• What don't I like about lessons? Be as specific as possible, but don't be afraid to start out vague.

There are a few options for this:

1. Take a break/vacation! Don't be afraid to take off all of December after your Christmas recital (if you have a recital then). December's often a busy month for musicians...and probably for your students too! Consider taking a summer break (all summer or just part of it) too. It's good to have a little break to refresh.
2. Consider lowering the number of students you teach. You can kindly let the students/parents know that you are reducing your number of students, but that you recommend so-and-so, etc. Don't forget to thank them for studying with you!

Maybe teaching just isn't your thing. That's ok. If you don't financially need to teach and you don't like it, don't do it. Life isn't stress-free, but enjoy what you can. If you choose not to teach, think of it as more job opportunities for those who love it and you do what you love. The world would be pretty boring (and competitive!) if we all adored the same things, huh?

These are just a few ideas....what do you think? I think taking a short vacation from lessons is a good option if you're feeling burnt out/


How do you feel about teaching? What are your suggestions?

-Barbara