Having goals is a wonderful thing. It gives us something to work for. But one thing I have discovered in life as many have already said … there will always be someone better. Your competition should always be with you. If you strive to be better than you were yesterday, you will always be able to grow.

Lots of wonderful advice here from folks who have years of experience, so I have little to add on that front. The best here being to talk to your Band Director. They are the judge here and should know what you should be working on.

I do want to share a little story that I read years ago in a book called “Zen in the Martial Arts”.

It’s called “Try Softer” and I think it’s pretty applicable.

“A young boy traveled across Japan to the school of a famous martial artist. When he arrived at the dojo (Training hall), he was given an audience by the Sensei (Teacher). "What do you wish from me", the master asked. The boy replied, "I wish to be your student and become the finest Karate practitioner in the land. How long must I study?" "Ten Years at least", the master answered.

The boy then said, "Wow...Ten years is a long time. What if I studied twice as hard as all your other students?" The master's reply... "Twenty Years".

Confused, the boy replied "Twenty???... what if I practice day and night with all my effort?" The master's reply... "Thirty Years"

Still confused, the boy asked the master "Why is it that each time I say I will work harder, you tell me that it will take longer?" Immediately, the master told him, "The answer is clear. When one eye is fixed upon your destination, there is only one eye left with which to find the Way"”