The Songs to Write Project

Yesterday I talked about the tools I’ve been collecting and using to begin this year long songwriting project. I don’t expect to sit down immediately and start churning out songs, especially since this is new to me.  I have friends who tell me of spontaneously having songs come to them in dreams, both sleeping and day time dreams, but they where active in the practice of music on a daily basis.  I believe the practice must come first to prime the pump of creativity.

Here’s how I’m priming the pump…

Do Your Dailies

One thing that I find gets in the way of any creative expression is the day-to-day distractions. I’m sure you know what I mean. Life gets in the way of other plans. Unless I specifically set aside time to clear the junk out of my head, the really creative thoughts get lost in the rush. So there are two things I do every day now to help prime my creative brain.

1. Centering (or meditation practice) that involves relaxation and clearing my mind and emotions. I do at least 15 minutes a day, preferably in the morning.
2. Writing is the second daily activity that I have practiced on and off for years. I write at least three pages long hand in the morning. Nothing special, just what’s on my mind. It’s amazing how ideas just flow through my pen some times. I first picked up this practice reading The Artist Way, by Julia Cameron.

I have other things I do each day like read special affirmations and goals.  Now it’s time to add daily practices related to my big goal of becoming a songwriter. I have been spending 15 minutes  per day at the piano and piano exercises. And I am spending 15 minutes  per day completing a songwriting exercise. The amount of time I set aside for each activity is a minimum. 15 minutes is doable. I can always spend more time if I have it. I often do.

The third new activity is to write this blog about my experiences with the Songs to Write Project. I believe that if I can become a songwriter, anyone can. The blog helps to keep me accountable.

Oh, and I believe in measuring progress so I created a checklist just to keep myself on track. I’ve found them very helpful. Send me a message if you would like a copy of it.

How about you? How do you keep yourself on track with your goal to learn how to write songs?

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