What we’re learning about group drumming.

From measuring decibel levels to playing with boomwhackers, we’ve had a brilliant time delivering our first Burnout Beaters sessions, learning loads in the process.

Everyone involved, us included, has had fun trying something new together and reconnecting. I’ve spotted a mix of emotions at the start of our sessions; some people are nervous about ‘teambuilding activities’, others don’t quite know what to expect. With the rise in home working, getting together in person and standing in a circle with no screens or desks to hide behind is exposing. There’s nowhere to hide. But this also means that drumming with colleagues is a great leveller; it strips away status and hierarchy.

We’re not expecting people to come away from our sessions having mastered how to drum – quite the opposite, in fact! As a recovering perfectionist, I’m adamant there’s no place for perfectionism in our sessions. Thankfully, our delightful participants have been open to experimentation and we learn as much from them as they do from us. There’s so much more to our workshops than simply having fun and I’ve been reflecting on what group drumming can reveal about ourselves and each other, such as:

• how we overcome self-consciousness, what do we need to let go and enjoy the moment, when are we able to laugh at ourselves
• how we approach trying something new, how we cope with perceived failure, what tips us into self-criticism, how we measure and celebrate success
• how we communicate, connect, listen, lead, follow, collaborate, adapt and build trust.

Drumming always makes me feel uplifted, so I’m thrilled that our participants feel significantly less stressed and more energised after one of our workshops. I’m proud that 100% of participants would recommend our workshops, and that people feel far more relaxed, cheerful, connected and focussed afterwards. If a single session can have such a positive impact on people, just think what a longer programme could achieve!

I’m buzzing with ideas about where this venture will take us and blown away by the helpful suggestions received from our supporters. We’re exploring new programmes, sectors and funding opportunities, plus a ‘pay it forward’ social impact scheme to benefit local charities.

No doubt there’s still loads for us to learn, and we’ll make mistakes along the way. I’m fine with that; in drumming, mistakes just show that you’re trying hard.