Meet Brendan Buckley

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Brendan Buckley a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Brendan, first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.

I believe that a great deal of people go through periods in their lives asking the question, “Am I worthy?” As a musician, a father, a son, a husband, and a friend, I sometimes wonder if I can actually live up to the image that people have of me. But spending all of your precious hours worrying about others’ opinions can leave you feeling empty, insecure, and unproductive. I think it’s important to focus on the quality of your work and your relationships. Be the best version of yourself. And whenever possible, avoid comparing yourself with everyone around you. Enjoy your self and the characteristics that make you unique. Remember: don’t prove yourself, improve yourself.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

I work as a freelance drummer. Basically, I get hired to record drums and percussion on albums, or to perform live with artists and bands. Sometimes, it can be for only one song or one concert. Other times, it can be for an entire album or a year-long tour. I started out as a high school hobbyist, and then proceeded to study music in college at The University of Miami’s School of Music. When I graduated, I had the skills to perform in many different environments and situations. My career has been filled with exciting challenges and adventures. Over the years, some of my main clients have been: Shakira, Morrissey, Perry Farrell, Tegan & Sara, Shelby Lynne, Damien Rice, Daniel Powter, Roberto Carlos, Beto Cuevas, Fulano, Melissa Ethridge, Miley Cyrus, Julio Iglesias, Paulina Rubio, Alejandra Guzman, Idina Menzel, Minnie Driver, Leehom Wang, Miyavi, Jackson Wang, JJ Lin, and Natalia LaFourcade. When I am not traveling, I work out of my LA-based recording studio Reflector Music. I have a social media project called DrummerPlusDrummer. And I enjoy teaching others music lessons either in-person or via Zoom.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

1. Dependability
2. Enthusiasm
3. Patience

“Dependability” has probably been my most valuable quality in both music and life. My friends, family, and workmates know that I will do everything in my power to accomplish the job at hand. I will prepare myself, and foresee as many obstacles as possible.

“Enthusiasm” is a valuable quality as well. Having a curiosity and positive attitude toward the work and the people around you helps lift the mood. Be excited, helpful, and open to new challenges.

“Patience” is a subtle quality that can pay high dividends. There are instances in which overreactions can worsen the situation. Often, it’s best to be patient, and play the long game. Pick and choose your battles well. Improve your tolerance.

Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?

My main technique to combat the feelings of being overwhelmed is to come up with a plan. Take time to get organized. I’ll often sit down with a journal, or a pen & paper, or even the Notes app in my iPhone, and begin jotting down the things that I have to do, their order of priority, and the due dates (if there are any). Once I have this basic structure, I can look at everything as a whole, and realistically begin accomplishing the important tasks, and postponing the unimportant ones. Procrastination and lack-of-planning are usually the two biggest causes of my anxiety.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Mari Buckley
Alex Solca
Alex Kluft
Pierre Martin
Francesco Desmaele
Darren H.

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