Singing For Yourself, Not for Perfection.

You Are a Work in Progress.

As singers, it’s easy to get caught up in the pursuit of perfection. Whether you’re preparing for a performance, trying to impress a teacher, or comparing yourself to others, the desire to “sound perfect” can sometimes overshadow the true joy of singing. But here’s the thing: you are a work in progress, and that’s exactly where you should be.

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Whatever it is, the way you tell your story can make all the difference.

Singing Is a Journey, Not a Destination

One of the most important lessons any singer can learn is that singing is a journey, not a destination. Your voice is constantly evolving. Just like any muscle in the body, your vocal cords need time, practice, and patience to grow stronger. Even professional singers, who seem to have mastered their craft, continue to train and work on their voices.

So why hold yourself to the impossible standard of perfection? If you’re only focused on hitting the “perfect” note or sounding like someone else, you’ll miss out on the freedom and joy that come from expressing yourself authentically through your voice.

Let Go of External Validation

Too often, we measure our worth as singers by the reactions of others—whether it’s the applause at the end of a performance or the feedback from a teacher or coach. While external validation can be motivating, it’s crucial to remember that singing is a deeply personal experience. You don’t sing just to please others—you sing because it’s a way to express your emotions, release tension, and connect with yourself.

When you sing for yourself, rather than for approval, you allow your voice to emerge naturally, without the weight of expectations. This shift in focus can be incredibly freeing. It helps you become more present and engaged with your voice, leading to more authentic and heartfelt performances.

Embrace the Imperfections

Every singer has strengths and weaknesses. Maybe your high notes need more control, or you’re still working on breath support. It’s easy to get frustrated by these limitations, but instead of seeing them as roadblocks, try to embrace them as part of your journey. Your imperfections are what make you unique.

By embracing where you are right now, you’ll find that you can enjoy the process of improvement much more. Remember, even the best singers had to start somewhere. No one is born a fully developed vocalist. Each practice session, each performance, is an opportunity to learn, grow, and move one step closer to the singer you want to become. Some of the greatest vocal performances are flawed (Think “The Story” voice crack, Brandi Carlile).

Focus on Self-Expression

At its core, singing is a form of self-expression. It’s not about perfection; it’s about sharing a piece of yourself with the world. When you sing for yourself, you tap into the emotional and creative power of your voice. Instead of worrying about what others think, focus on how singing makes you feel. Does it bring you joy? Does it help you release tension or express something you’ve been holding inside? Do you think Steven Tyler had a clue what he was doing when he ad-libbed the end of Amazing? Probably not, he just let the emotion take over.

Stay Connected to Why You Sing

Whenever you feel discouraged or frustrated with your progress, take a step back and remind yourself why you started singing in the first place. Was it the joy of hitting that first note? The feeling of connecting with a song that resonates with your emotions? Reconnecting with your “why” will help you stay grounded and keep the focus on your personal journey rather than external pressures.

Celebrate Small Wins

Progress doesn’t always come in giant leaps; often, it’s the small, incremental improvements that make the biggest difference. Did you finally master that tricky run? Hit a high note with confidence for the first time? Celebrate those wins, no matter how small they may seem. Each achievement is a sign that you’re growing as a singer, and each challenge you face is an opportunity to learn more about your voice.

Final Thoughts: You Are Enough

At the end of the day, remember that you are enough—right now, exactly as you are. Your voice, with all its unique qualities, has something to offer the world. Yes, you’re a work in progress, but so is every singer. Don’t wait until you’ve achieved “perfection” to appreciate your voice. Sing for yourself, and let your passion and joy be your guide.

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