Lately, I have been procrastinating. I look at my "to-do" list and suddenly hear the siren call of a Youtube rabbit hole that promises to be much more delicious and adventuresome than the task at hand. Anything better than that thing that needs doing is where I want to be. That pan in the sink meant to soak for scrubbing lately is suddenly the most critical work in the world. Does that happen to you? Mentally berating myself into a productive mode never works; following my monkey's dictate doesn't help either. So what to do in these moments? If I am not on a deadline, take a breath. Or a nap.
The power of naps is deeply underestimated in our society. I believe that cats are their visiting missionaries.
If I am on a deadline, I still take a breath to loosen that noose of perfectionism choking the natural unfoldment of what is mine to do. Perfectionism (excessively high standards with a dash of self-criticism) is a type of paralysis that can rob one of joy and focus. It certainly does for me! So in those moments of procrastination, I embrace imperfection. Just get the task done, it may be messy and not ideal, but it is movement in the right direction. For me, positive action is better than stagnation. So friend, when you are feeling frozen in place by procrastination, be kind to yourself and gentle and allow the lesson of imperfection to unfold.
What I am reading/watching
At the beginning of February, I had an opportunity to hear author Ross Gay read his recent book, Inciting Joy, as part of Seattle Arts and Lectures. He is a beautiful writer and speaker, and poet and his prose flows poetically. I got his book and just started the introduction, and I am ready to buy into the journey: an exploration of joy.
Upcoming shows
Some fun shows are coming up in March-see the calendar for details. Here are a few highlights:
March 4th at Traditions, tickets are still available. Traditions will be booking shows til the end of March, and then they are taking a break from offering live music for a while. The fantastic store will continue. Tickets available at Traditions
On March 11th, I will perform with some excellent Seattle-based vocalists, Einah Jordan and Jacqueline Tabor. We will be performing at the WEAVE performance venue. These award-winning vocalists are outstanding, and I am honored to share the stage with them. You can learn about them and hear their music on their websites: Elnah Jordan | Jacqueline Tabor
I recently watched an amazing documentary about legendary bassist Ron Carter called Finding the Right Notes. Mr. Carter has had an amazing career as an educator and sought-after bassist who has played with jazz and pop royalty. He is the most-recorded jazz bassist in the world according to the Guinness book of World Records with over 2,000 documented recorded projects. 
