This is the mindset shift I practice most intentionally.
Replace “have to” with “get to.”
Even in the things I love doing most, repetition can bring a certain Groundhog Day-sensation that leaves a person demoralized.
I have to start over from scratch with a new ensemble.
I have to drive my kid 30 minutes for a lesson.
I have to spend the weekend camping with the Scout troop.
I get to start over from scratch with a new ensemble – and give more students experiences they might not have had without me.
I get to drive my kid to that lesson – and spend both an hour with her and help her gain new skills.
I get to spend the weekend camping – and help facilitate growth, learning, and bonding.
I think that virtually every “have to” can be changed to “get to” and that doing so helps me have a more consistently positive mindset about the work I’m doing, regardless of what it is. From dishes to laundry to explaining key signatures for the 1,000th time, I get to do so many things every day.