Oops! 3 Lessons I Learned the Hard Way

When I was a beginning teacher, the school of hard knocks was my constant companion. I learned quickly, and sometimes painfully, that I had a lot to learn. Here are three mistakes that shaped me the most:

I Made Too Many Changes Too Quickly

I entered my first job bursting with ideas. I was sure I’d wow the kids. Instead, they pushed back on almost everything. At first I blamed the previous teacher… then the students… until I finally realized the truth: I had changed too much, too fast.

Students need stability. Communities have expectations. Programs have histories. I learned to slow down, observe, and make changes patiently. “Slow and steady” really does win the race.

I Tried to Reinvent the Wheel

I was determined not to be the teacher who “just sings from the book.” So I spent hours creating brand‑new lessons every week. A friend gently pointed out that I didn’t need to overhaul everything — I could tweak one or two elements at a time and build on what already worked.

I learned that using time‑tested ideas isn’t lazy. It’s smart. Adapt what exists, make it fit your students, and save your energy for the moments that truly need your creativity.

I Wanted Everyone to Like Me

Oh, how I craved approval. I equated success with being liked — by colleagues, parents, even students. So when someone didn’t like me (or didn’t care about music education at all!), I spiraled. I replayed conversations, questioned myself, and tried to win people over.

With time and maturity, I learned a freeing truth: I can’t control what others think. I can only control my integrity, my effort, and my heart for kids. Not everyone will like you — and that’s ok.