You need the "3 M system"... Ok, BEFORE you even listen, sometimes I forget the name of my own podcast, but here we are, still thriving. Also, I’ve had my morning coffee, and it’s HIT, so let’s get into it! 😅☕️ Today, we’re talking about something BIG: saying no as a musician. We musicians are notorious for saying yes to everything—because we want the gigs, we don’t want to be forgotten, and let’s be real, we need the money. But then what happens? We get overworked, underpaid, and totally burnt out. Been there, done that. Saying no can feel terrifying. What if they never ask again? What if I miss an opportunity? What if my career implodes? (Dramatic? Maybe. But tell me I’m wrong.) The truth is, saying no is actually a way of making space for something better. For me, that meant turning down certain unpaid community orchestra gigs—no shade, love them!—so I could say yes to well-paid gigs, new opportunities, and work that aligns with where I actually want to go. And this is where the magic formula comes in: The 3M System. Shoutout to a fave conductor I adore for this gem of wisdom, and make sure to listen in to find out what those "3 M"s are. If the system doesn’t hit at least two out of three? BYE. 🚪✨ This simple rule has saved me from burnout and helped me build a career that actually works for me. You can tweak it to fit your life—make it the 3S’s, 4P’s, whatever works. But at the end of the day, know this: it’s okay to ask, what’s in it for me? You’re giving your talent and energy, and that has VALUE. So, my loves, let’s start saying NO to things that drain us, and YES to opportunities that elevate us. Who’s with me?! 🙌 🎧 Listen now and let me know—what’s YOUR version of the 3M System? DM me, drop a comment, let’s chat! 💬✨ Jay x Loved this episode? Let me know by leaving a review and sharing with a friend! 📌 Don't miss anything! 🎻 For cello coaching, performance tuition, support & cello badassery, join me in the Confident Cello Lounge: https://subscribepage.io/theconfidentcellolounge SUBSCRIBE to my email list and NEVER miss an episode! https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/1230924/140869275920368929/share 🌍 Jay Émme Wedding & Session Cello: https://jayemme.com for the professional performances 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cosmicgirlie 📹 TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@cosmicgirlie for more cello chaos, and creative confidence boosts ❓ More links: https://bio.site/jayemme/ for more goodies!
