Perfectionism—"a trap that keeps you from sharing your voice."

Embracing Imperfection: A Guide for Songwriters and Mix Engineers

For songwriters and mix engineers, the pursuit of creating something new and meaningful can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. You sit down to write a song or perfect a mix, but the ideas don’t flow, or the result doesn’t match the polished vision in your head. If this sounds familiar, it’s time to shift your perspective.

Great music isn’t about forcing perfection—it’s about embracing authenticity, emotion, and the creative process as a lifestyle.

Let Go of the Struggle

If you’re struggling to write a good song or achieve a flawless mix, here's what you can do.

Stop trying so hard.

Creativity thrives in freedom, not in rigid expectations. Instead of forcing ideas, ask yourself: Are the ideas already there, waiting to be expressed? Some of the most iconic songs in history came from moments of spontaneity, where the artist tapped into something raw and real. This doesn’t happen by overthinking or striving for perfection—it happens when you live and breathe music every day and trying new things.

The best songs often emerge unexpectedly because they’re a reflection of your life, emotions, and experiences. When you make music a part of your daily rhythm, inspiration becomes second nature. You don’t need to “try” to write a song; the melodies and ideas will find you.

Perfectionism vs. Artistry

Many musicians excel at their craft—mastering an instrument or perfecting a mix—but struggle to create original work. Some even find listening to music frustrating because they’re hyper-focused on technical imperfections. This mindset, while disciplined, can stifle creativity. Perfectionism is not artistry; it’s a barrier to it.

Some of the most beloved songs are full of so-called “flaws”—a slightly off-key note, a raw vocal take, or an unpolished mix. These imperfections are what make music feel human, relatable, and emotionally resonant. They communicate something deeper than technical precision ever could. A perfectly pitched vocal or a flawless mix might impress, but it’s the subtle cracks—the moments just before a note resolves or a chord shifts—that grip the listener’s heart.

How to Write Songs That Connect

So, how do you create music that feels authentic and impactful? Start by letting go of overthinking. Here’s a simple approach to tap into your creativity:

1. Sit with Your Instrument: Whether it’s a guitar, piano, or DAW, choose the tool that feels most natural to you.
2. Express What’s Real: Sing or play what you’re feeling in the moment. Don’t worry about finding the perfect words or chords—just let the melodies flow. If words don’t come then hum or vocalize.
3. Don’t Judge: Resist the urge to critique your work as you create. This is about capturing raw emotion, not chasing perfection.
4. Record Everything: Capture your ideas, even if they feel rough. You’ll be surprised at the melodies and textures that emerge when you let go and trust your intuition. Sometimes revisiting a song after a few days, you get to see that that idea has potential.

This process is about freedom—allowing yourself to play, experiment, and have fun without worrying about what others might think. Your song is yours, born from your unique experiences. If it’s rooted in real emotion, it will connect with someone, even if it doesn’t resonate with everyone.

Imperfection is King

One of the most cool aspects of music is its subjectivity. A song that moves one person to tears might not click with someone else—and that’s okay. The key is to stay true to yourself. If you love what you’ve created, share it with the world. Even if you’re unsure about it, release it anyway. Every song you write or mix you produce is a step toward growth. You can’t improve if you don’t start.

Perfectionism is a trap that keeps you from sharing your voice. No one is perfect, and striving for an unattainable ideal only stifles your creativity. Instead, embrace the uniqueness of your sound. No one can sing, play, or mix like you do—your perspective is inherently original.

Make Creativity a Lifestyle

Creating original music or a compelling mix is not a one-time effort; it’s a way of life. Spend time in your creative space—whether it’s a bedroom, a studio, or a quiet corner—and let yourself be free. Experiment, improvise, and record your ideas without judgment. The more you immerse yourself in this process, the more naturally creativity or inspiration will flow.

As a songwriter or mix engineer, your creativity is an endless well. Trust it. Keep going, keep creating, and don’t be afraid to share your work, flaws and all.

The world is waiting to hear your voice.

Take the Challenge

Here’s a challenge for you: Sit down today with your instrument or DAW and spend 15 minutes playing or singing whatever comes to mind. Don’t overthink it—just let the ideas flow and record them with your Voice Memos, or audio recording app. You might be surprised by the melodies or textures that emerge. Share your experience or your new creation with someone, and keep nurturing your creative spark.

Your next great song or mix is waiting to be discovered.

Keep creating, stay true to yourself, and and be honest and real with your music.



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