Page 7 - 2018 June BMR

Persistence, Persistence,

and More Persistence!

Dr. Tim Lautzenheiser

* What is SUCCESS? In fact, rarely does the planned course unfold as it was
* How do we define/determine SUCCESS originally conceived. Please refer to the illustration below.
in our band world? When things go awry, it is tempting
* Moreover, how do we ATTAIN Dr. Tim will to throw in the towel and turn our
SUCCESS? present “Mirror, backs on the self-assigned goal(s)…even
* What is the pathway one must Mirror on the claiming (rationalizing!) that the original
traverse to achieve the elusive destination Wall...” idea was not worthy and/or certainly not
we know as SUCCESS? achievable. However what about those
To borrow an equation from Angela on July 26, 3 p.m. who always are at the pinnacle of their
Duckworth’s wonderful book “GRIT”: at the convention game? How do the get there and stay
there? Are they always the benefactors
TALENT + EFFORT = SKILLS
of good luck? What do they know/do that ensures their
SKILLS + EFFORT = ACHIEVEMENT
ongoing high level achievements?
As we can quickly ascertain, the common denominator Might I suggest all outstanding accomplishments are
is EFFORT. One can be “talented,” one can be “skilled,” fueled by PERSISTENCE, or - if you will - “Giving up giving
but without the magic elixir of EFFORT the “achievement” up.” Are the many master teachers TALENTED? Of course
(whatever it may be for each of us) will not be realized. they are. Are they SKILLED? Absolutely. Above all, they
It would be logical (then) to simply conclude, “If I are PERSISTENT. They don’t know any special shortcut or
dedicate myself to a rigorous schedule of EFFORTING, some secret code; they just stay “on it” and “at it” until they
my personal and professional goals will come to fruition.” arrive at the road sign that reads: ACCOMPLISHMENT/
However, we all know - all too well - there is far more SUCCESS!
to it. It is not a quick and easy trip from idea to outcome.

“What I planned. What happened.” cartoon was created by Julia Gamolina

Bandmasters Review • June 2018 5 Texas Bandmasters Association