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Blog

I’m Sarah –

I write about creative practice, burnout, identity, and what it actually takes to build a musical life — honestly, imperfectly, and without burning out along the way.

This is a space for musicians who are done waiting for the "right time" to take their craft seriously.

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The Musician's Inner Critic: What It Is, Where It Comes From, and How to Stop Letting It Run Your Practice
Self-Care for Musicians Sarah Stumböck Self-Care for Musicians Sarah Stumböck

The Musician's Inner Critic: What It Is, Where It Comes From, and How to Stop Letting It Run Your Practice

The inner critic doesn't just affect how you feel about your practice. It changes what you actually do when you practice — turning sessions mechanical, keeping work perpetually unfinished, and convincing you that anything less than perfect isn't worth doing at all. But here's what most advice gets wrong: the inner critic isn't your enemy. It's a protector. And understanding what it's protecting you from is where the real work begins. This article explores what the inner critic actually is, why musicians are especially vulnerable to it, what neuroscience says about silencing it — and how to develop a relationship with that voice that doesn't cost you your music.

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How to Build a Sustainable Creative Practice (Without Burning Out)

How to Build a Sustainable Creative Practice (Without Burning Out)

A sustainable creative practice isn’t about constant inspiration or pushing harder — it’s about rhythm, structure, and joy. By creating within limits, honoring your nervous system, and making space for satisfaction and flow, you can avoid creative burnout and build a practice that lasts. In this article, I share the strategies that transformed my own creative life and show how structure and inspiration can coexist in your work.

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Musicians and Self-Care: Why You Must Fill Your Cup Before Serving
Self-Care for Musicians Sarah Stumböck Self-Care for Musicians Sarah Stumböck

Musicians and Self-Care: Why You Must Fill Your Cup Before Serving

As musicians, our energy is deeply intertwined with the music we play. When we’re well-rested and recharged, our music becomes a powerful and seamless extension of ourselves. But when we’re drained, the connection weakens. This article explores why self-care is essential for musicians and how prioritizing your well-being improves the energy and quality of your music. Learn practical self-care tips to recharge, so you can offer your most potent, aligned sound to the world.

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