Success is a lousy teacher. It seduces smart people into thinking they can’t lose.” Bill Gates
As part of our management duties with National Party Bands®, Ed and I regularly go to see the bands on our roster in a live performance. The goal is to assess the performance and document any areas where the band can improve. We analyze everything, including the sound, the lighting, costumes, song selection, audience interaction and choreography.
The week after the show, Ed and I discuss our notes and have a conference call with the band leader to share our observations.
Ed and I recently had a call regarding one of our bands that had some areas that we thought needed improvement. This is not necessarily uncommon. We expect the best from all of our bands in every area all of the time.
One thing I realized after our conversation, was how great it is to be involved with band leaders who want to be the best they can be and are willing to listen. It’s easy to become protective of your creations and not take criticism well. Whether it’s a song, or a business, or an idea, oftentimes, it’s easier to hold onto it and not open up to new perspectives.
I have learned it’s best to lightly hold on to our ideas and creations. It makes it easier to adjust our course.
It’s a good idea to have someone around you who will tell you the truth – whether it’s good or bad. If you really want to know how you’re doing – ask someone you trust and set your feelings aside.
Creating something of value is more important than being comfortable.
Dennis
“Whoever stubbornly refuses to accept criticism will suddenly be broken beyond repair.” Proverbs 29:1
