As I take a moment in one of the most gorgeous seasons of autumn in Minnesota, I reflect back on the last 6 months. In one of our previous newsletters about 6 months ago, I shared with y’all that I started an intensive MBA class through a program called Elevate Hennepin. On October 22nd, I presented my 3 year growth plan with my classmates, and 3 expert judges. On the 29th, I graduate. During these 6 months, I have also listened to 2 audiobooks (in all my driving around the cities) by Mel Robbins: “The Let Them Theory”, “The High Five Habit” , and the Mel Robbins podcast. The universe gifted me with her books, advice, and care as I worked my TAIL OFF writing and learning about all the intricacies of making the dream and mission of Opus Music Academy truly come alive in the next 3 years, while having plenty of time with my family and keeping my customers and team happy. The dream is already alive- all of you as our customers have stated to me over and over again how great it feels to be a part of Opus, how welcoming and warm our culture and our teachers are, and how safe and encouraged and challenged the students feel with their Opus teachers.

And then there is our team. There’s no way Opus can exist and thrive in fulfilling our mission of making music available and accessible to all….without a team of teachers and admin who share my passion and believe so strongly in our big vision for the future of our budding musicians.

Mel Robbins’ books and podcasts have continually reminded me to give myself some credit, allow myself to be a work in progress, that anything that comes my way-  I can handle it, and to recognize when I’m experiencing good stress, maladaptive stress, or overwhelm. With this knowledge and mindful practice, I have learned to pace myself, and set specific, realistic and achievable goals for not only myself, but for my whole team.

I can’t wait to share all the many new programs and exciting things that are already in motion. Take the time to rest, reflect, journal, read or listen to podcasts and books.

Yours in Service,

Kathy Petersen
President and Founder, Opus Music Academy