Ever since I was 10 years old, I wanted to play the drums. I have thought about taking lessons over the years, but my sport activities took precedent. I kept coming back to wanting to take lessons. So finally, four years ago at the age of 41, I embarked on a journey that I has giving me a healthy outlet and I know I will continue to enjoy the rest of my life. Now I have a blues band and we gig around Sonoma County.
Here is how I started the process. I determined that I would have to earn my way through this by my how much commitment I set aside for practice.
I decided not to jump in deep and spend a lot of money on great equipment. I started gradually with a drum pad kit and practice 15 Min's a day. After two weeks I was practicing 30 Min's a day. By month two I put in a least a hour each day. Many times when a person jumps in too strong, the excitement tends to fade quicker. I made reasonable attainable goals for myself and accomplished them. After three months, I found that I really like the drums and committed to purchasing my first drum set ever. It was a beginning set and did not cost too much. I played with that set and added a few percussion pieces to it over a three year period. Finally, I knew that I was committed enough to this to purchase a top of the line drum set that I will have for the rest of my life.
I still take weekly lessons and have had my blues band now for over one year. It is a commitment, but well worth the reward. I continue expanding my mind and challenging myself. It is definitely a great way to escape from the this crazy real estate market for a short while.
I encourage everyone to follow their dreams of doing something you always wanted to do. Is is never too late and you are never too old to start something new. You can make the time. Just don't overwhelm yourself setting unattainable goals. Slowly build your commitment to it and you will find that you will set aside more time for your new hobby over months and over years.
Life is too short, Enjoy it!
Randy Benefield
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