Patrice-Coyle-Intro-Ch2

Introduction

Summary

Honestly, the introduction got me really intrigued. I loved the example of Clarissa, sharing both deep practice and "wasting time" as McPhearson described. This introduction instilled a new sense of dedication and commitment to my practicing and efforts in all skills I am striving to develop.

Application

The biggest take away for me it to be aware of my practice routines. When am I in deep practice? When am I wasting time? I think awareness is the first step before I can make any changes.

Chapter 1

Summary

The biggest takeaway for me in chapter 1 was embrace your mistakes. Thrive in the struggle. Strive for failure. Without these goals we won't improve or grow. Progress cannot and will not come without opposition. I also really liked the story of Edwin Link. My takeaways from it were one- be open to new and different ways of learning, even if is unconventional, and two- allow a setting for deep practice, both physically and mentally.

Application

I would like to apply this by making note of my mistakes. As I practice I want to not only be mentally aware of my mistakes, but to write them down which will bring a stronger consciousness to the mistake.  Growth cannot happen without failure and I want to apply that in my practices.

Chapter 2

Summary

Understanding myelin and the process that happens in the brain helps me know why deep practice works. If I personally understand the how of something I am more likely to dedicate my time to make sure I do my best. I liked the part where he said every expert is the result of 10,000 hours of committed practice, or deliberate practice. I do think there is more to becoming an expert than just 10,000 hours of practice, like we discussed in class, however the hours combined with deep practice can make all the difference.

Application

Drill drill drilll. I think back when I was in marching band and we would do the same 10 seconds of our show over and over again. Even though it was tedious and sometimes tiring and dare I say annoying, I was less likely to make a mistake at that section and I remembered the preciseness of my marching drill. I want to be better at applying this technique in my practices. Drill drill drill. I want to work on my songs a piece at a time and drill it until I know it.