How Consistent Do Pre-Performance Routines Need to Be?

If you've watched any sports - especially golf, basketball, and tennis - you've probably noticed that many athletes have a pre-shot, pre-free throw, or pre-serve ritual that they go through before performing that skill.Many musicians have rituals too, even if it's as simple as wiping your hands on your pants or hearing the opening of a piece to get the tempo in mind before you begin playing.Athletes' routines tend to be very consistent, and don't change from game to game or shot to shot. But ...