#19 Losing Your Love of Music? Understanding Burnout with Psychotherapist Jessica Quiñones

In this conversation, Grace Hancock and Jessica Quiñones delve into the complexities of musical burnout, exploring its symptoms, the impact of perfectionism, and the relationship musicians have with their craft. They discuss the importance of understanding the psychological aspects of musicianship and how to reclaim joy in music through setting boundaries and addressing personal needs. Grace and Jessica explore the complexities of maintaining a relationship with music, setting boundaries, and the therapeutic process of reconnecting with one's inner child. They discuss the challenges of songwriting, the importance of play in creativity, and how to navigate burnout in the music industry. The dialogue emphasises the significance of creating a new relationship with music that fosters joy and fulfilment, rather than pressure and expectation.   Takeaways Musical burnout encompasses a variety of symptoms and experiences. Many musicians face existential exhaustion and performance anxiety. Perfectionism can lead to a toxic relationship with music. Identifying personal motivations for making music is crucial. Setting boundaries is essential for mental health in music. Musicians often need to redefine their relationship with music. Therapeutic work can help musicians reconnect with their essence. Not all musicians return to music in the same way after burnout. Understanding one's history with music can aid in recovery. Connecting with one's inner child can unlock creativity. Therapeutic techniques can help in reconnecting with lost parts of self. Re-entering music after burnout requires a new approach. Creating a new relationship with music involves changing expectations. Engaging in playful activities can replenish creative energy.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jessica Quinones 03:04 Identifying Symptoms of Musical Burnout 05:46 The Impact of Feeling Like You Are Never Enough 09:06 Musicianship as an Abusive Relationship 11:55 Why Do We Perform? 14:12 Perfectionism and the Need for the 'Safe Zone' 17:55 Coming Back to Your Essence 19:20 Setting New Boundaries in Your Musical Relationship 22:28 The Difficulties of Accessing Creativity 25:02 Connecting with the Inner Child 27:17 Therapeutic Techniques for Reconnecting with Self 32:07 Rediscovering Joy in Music 33:12 Finding Time for Play to 'Fill the Well' of Inspiration 37:06 Re-entering Music After Burnout 39:45 Finding Support in the Music Industry   Mentions: Contact Jessica: drjessicaquinones.com The Music Industry Therapists Collective MITC: www.musicindustrytherapists.com The Concept of ‘Artist Dates’ from the book ‘The Artist’s Way’ by Julia Cameron   About the Host Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.   [email protected] www.gracehancockmusic.com Instagram: @gracehancockmusic Facebook: @gracehancockmusician   #burnout #psychology #musician #mentalhealth #self-identity #perfectionism #musictherapy #creativity #innerchild #settingboundaries #therapy #fulfillment, #musicindustry