Personal Struggle

Have you ever had the experience of sitting at home, in your car, or at a coffee shop thinking “am I supposed to be doing something?” For me, this question has been hitting me hard for the past couple of days. Currently, I am sitting on my couch trying to relax before heading off to a big day of activities including work, practicing, etc. but my mind is stuck on preparing for February 4th, the first official day that I am no longer employed at a full time position. I am constantly thinking “are we prepared for this new adventure? Have we taken the steps necessary to ensure ‘survival?’ Are we prepared for the worst?” So, this blog is more for me than for you, but perhaps you can take a few tips from it to apply to your life. So let’s break down these questions and answer each. Question 1 “Are we prepared for this new adventure?” Absolutely. I am excited to be the boss of me, to collaborate with some fantastic musicians, teachers and students, and to be able to spend more time with the woman I love. Who wouldn’t want to have more time to spend with family and friends? Question 2 “Have we taken the steps necessary to ensure ‘survival?’” Well, I think it depends on your definition of survival. Some people think that means having the money and resources needed to go 3-6 months without a job or income. Some believe it means having the support of colleagues, friends, and family no matter what. In either instance, I am prepared. I have saved a set amount that I can live off of while I continue to reach for the stars (also I am still employed at lots of places so I am not losing all my income!) I also have some of the greatest colleagues, friends, mentors and family I could ask for! So, yes, I do have what I need for survival! Final question “Are we prepared for the worst?” I think as a musician, we are almost always prepared for the worst. I want to leave with a saying that I always think to myself in the worst times. “When you are going through hell, keep going.” Always try to find the good in things, whether it is in humanity or a bad situation, something good will happen after it gets bad. Thank you for reading this far, and as always if you have any questions or want to hear my thoughts on another subject, let me know via email or however you want to contact me!

Musically yours,

Nathaniel Lease