How to stay motivated while learning music besides a full-time job

"Some days, after work, I feel too tired even to pick up my guitar," says Ridwan Salsabil, a banker who has been learning music for six months. "But when I do, I feel a sense of relief. It's like entering another world where my stress fades away." Ridwan finds it very difficult to learn a new thing while doing a 9-to-5 job. However, he manages it since this is his escape from the busy world.

Balancing a full-time job with learning music is not easy. A long day at work leaves little time and energy for practice, especially if you live in Dhaka. With a long traffic of more than eight to 10 hours at the workplace, professionals often struggle with tight schedules, deadlines, and fatigue. Finding the motivation to continue learning an instrument or improving vocal skills can be difficult. However, many professionals still keep their passion alive despite their demanding careers.

Music has a vital role in life. It is not just entertainment but also a form of expression, relaxation, and self-improvement. For professionals, learning music offers an escape from their daily routine. It helps reduce stress, improve concentration, and bring joy. Adnan Asif is a software developer who loves to play flute. He says, "Playing the flute is like meditating for me. It helps me maintain focus in my personal and professional life. That is why I go for tuition three days a week."

Studies show that playing an instrument or singing can boost mental health by increasing dopamine levels, contributing to happiness and motivation. Despite the challenges, professionals in different fields are making time for music and reaping its benefits.

Sakib Mahtab, a trainee accountant, says, "My work is stressful, but music gives me peace. When I play the keyboard, I feel like I am in control. It helps me reset my mind after a long day at the office." Sakib has been learning to use the keyboard on and off for the past two years. A tutor visits his house twice a week to give him keyboard sessions.

But how does Mr Sakib manages his hobby? "I manage my schedule by dedicating at least an hour after work to practice. I treat it like an appointment with myself. I don't let other tasks interfere with my music time. It is important to prioritise your passion," he adds. He takes lessons from an online platform and also practices by watching tutorial videos.

For Zinat Ara, a copywriter, music is a source of creativity. "Writing can be mentally exhausting. I need something to refresh my mind, and music does that for me," she says.

Zinat has been taking vocal lessons for over a year. She takes classes five days a week from a private tutor and practices regularly at home. "I plan my day carefully. I finish my work on time to practice in the evening. It takes discipline, but it is worth it," she explains.

According to her, singing helps her focus better at work. "When I sing, I feel more positive. It makes me a better writer, too."

However, being occupied too much can sometimes become hectic. It might have been difficult to spend many hours in tiring activities. In response, Zinat believes, "It might become tiring since you invest more than half of your day in serious activities. You would rarely have time to sit idly. But when you perfectly put a note, all these thoughts disappear."

Ridwan Salsabil, the banker, faces a demanding work schedule but still manages to continue learning the guitar. "I joined my university band club, where I take guitar lessons thrice weekly. Every day after getting my notations from there, I go to my house and practice at night before bed. Sometimes I can only play for 20 minutes, but I make sure I do it," he says. Besides being from the band club, Ridwan sometimes gets guidance from a local music teacher. "The key is consistency. Even if I can't practice for long hours, I keep going," he adds. For him, music is not just a hobby but a way to stay mentally fresh. "It helps me disconnect from work stress and enjoy something purely for myself."

Managing time is the biggest challenge for jobholders who want to learn music. Work responsibilities, deadlines, and social commitments often make sticking to a regular practice schedule hard-however, those who are determined to find ways to keep going.

Some wake up early to practice, while others use their weekends. Many learners rely on online tutorials, mobile apps, and flexible lessons to continue their journey.

Discipline and motivation play a huge role in balancing music with a full-time job. Sakib Mahtab says, "Setting small goals can motivate learners, such as learning a new song each month or mastering a technique within a few weeks. Rewarding oneself for achieving these goals can also help. Joining a community of learners or performing in small gatherings can provide encouragement and a sense of progress."

Difficulties, tiredness, and stress will be there; however, learning music while managing a full-time job is possible with proper planning and dedication. Passion and commitment can make it work. Music adds value to life, offering comfort, relaxation, creativity, and personal growth. That music admirer who wants to master the art form but cannot do it because of a tight schedule can start doing this by taking a simple step: holding your musical instrument and playing it.

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