Is each part of your practice integral, or are some things just side habits along for the ride?
My writing practice is to simple: sit and write daily. But recently I find it hard to begin my writing except at the end of the day. I can sit and not write anytime in the day, but when it’s the end of the day, I get my writing done.
I don’t think that end of the day is part of my practice; it’s just my habit. I have conditioned myself to feel ready to write at the end of my day. Through repetition, I have associated two things that aren’t necessarily connected.
Sometimes what looks like an integral part of the practice can just be a side habit.
It’s worth asking about any practice you regularly follow. Your rehearsal technique practice. Your score study practice. Your post-rehearsal wind-down practice. Your first-day-of-school practice.
I’ll bet that almost every practice I currently use is a mix of integral elements and side habits that are just along for the ride. Recognizing which is which can be a great way to streamline your practice and make it more enjoyable and flexible.