Summertime affords space for reflection. Can you bring that to your everyday?
But I think that waiting till summer to reflect on what’s working and what isn’t takes too long. Often, when I’m in the middle of work, I don’t think I can possibly also devote time to stepping back and assessing what works and what doesn’t, but it’s by far the best possible time.
It’s the best time because…
… I am in it, so I have the closest view.
… I still have the ability to execute changes to improve things for the current singers/students.
… I am less likely to get stuck in a rut that leads in a wrong direction if I change course based on reflection.
Of course I take time in the summer for deep reflection on the past and the future for my work. That’s essential, and I will continue to do that. But I also think it can be incredibly beneficial to take at least a little time to do it day by day. That’s how it’ll do the most good.