Being Under Pressure: How Playing Piano Became My Lifeline

Life can throw us curveballs, and when it does, sometimes we find ourselves in situations where every decision counts. Recently, I found myself in a challenging financial situation, which led me to explore various ways to earn some extra money. As a pianist, performing street concerts has become a meaningful part of my life, even though it comes with its own set of challenges. In this article, I will share my experience and how playing piano became a creative outlet for me during tough times.

Financial Strain and Creative Solutions

One of the most pressing challenges I faced this year was a financial one. By September, I had realized that I needed to find a way to earn some extra money. Initially, I had planned to wrap up my street performances for the year, but the financial strain made it difficult to ignore. I decided to take a different approach and play a few more concerts to boost my earnings for the remainder of the year. Although I regretted it in hindsight, the additional performances allowed me to make some extra cash, which was crucial at the time.

A Creative Outlet During Hard Times

Performing street concerts can be both rewarding and taxing. On one hand, it gives me a platform to express myself through music and connect with people. On the other hand, it can be physically and emotionally demanding, especially when done frequently. I remember one week when I played five times in a row, which is the type of schedule I generally avoid. However, the extra money helped ease some of my financial stress, making it worth the effort.

Reflections and Gratitude

Now that the performances are over for the year, I reflect on my experience with a mix of contentment and regret. While I am grateful for the money that helped me out, I realize that such a schedule is not sustainable in the long run. It reminded me of the value of balance and the importance of nurturing one's well-being, even when faced with financial pressures.

Embracing a Sunny Monday and Setting Goals

As a parting note, I want to share how I am currently facing a new challenge but also finding happiness in it. Today is a sunny Monday, and I am feeling good, despite the upcoming academic responsibilities. I have class today, but I am determined to use my time wisely. My plan is to take notes and review previous lectures. Afterward, if I still have some free time, I intend to participate in online competitions to keep myself engaged and motivated. It's a happy and productive start to the week!

Conclusion

In conclusion, life's financial challenges can push us to find creative solutions. For me, playing piano on the street became a lifeline during a difficult time. While the experience taught me about the importance of balance, it also provided me with a sense of accomplishment and gratitude. I hope my story inspires others to find their own creative outlets and to persevere through challenging times.