I firmly believe that if a certain approach is working well for you and your students, then go for it. I recall a situation when our administration requested our presence at every home game. In response, we suggested participating in one home game with the Jazz band. There were some restrictions to prevent us from playing that often almost crossed the line for a penalty for the team
We faced a similar requests in the same season, I reiterated my concerns to our administration. Fortunately, they understood the importance of avoiding burnout and suggested an alternative: a full band performance at a basketball pep rally in celebration of the playoffs. We found this to be a more effective and efficient use of our time, showing support for the team without compromising our well-being.
It's crucial to acknowledge that we have lives outside the band hall. Recognizing this reality is essential in addressing burnout. It's perfectly acceptable not to spend every waking moment at the school. Striking a balance between our commitment to excellence and self-care ensures the longevity and continued success of ourselves in this profession.
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