How To Learn A New Skill—And Actually Master It
Skill mastery takes time. It involves determination, zeal, effort, intention, and discipline. It is something we often overlook, especially in our fast-paced culture of wanting everything now. However mastery holds value well beyond the surface. In the long run, the ability to achieve mastery is what sets apart superstars.
In order to master any skill, you have to know what the steps are. Here are the three steps that will impact you and help you succeed in any area of your life as you embrace the art of mastery.
Understand The Fundamentals
Unfortunately, very few people are willing to put time and effort into the fundamentals. The basics are perceived as boring, unrewarding, maybe even too tangible. The unknown, the high expectations, and the thrill are perceived to be more exciting and rewarding.
However, there lies tremendous power in building a foundation for whatever you set out to achieve.
Avoid suffering from SOS (shiny object syndrome 🆘). Invest into a strong foundation that will ultimately aid in making your path to skill acquisition invincible. Let the ordinary become extraordinary. “Wow” yourself.
Basic Skill Acquisition
Let’s be real. Skill mastery is not going to happen in a 4-pack New Year Training Discount that a gym is offering you. It’s just not. Mastery takes time. What those sessions will do for you is (1) be a great introduction to what you don’t know and (2) be a great introduction into the skills that you need to learn. Basic skill acquisition is all about learning what you don’t know, evaluating what you need to work on, and setting out to build a high level of proficiency.
Take It To The Next Level
Understanding the fundamentals, acquiring basic skills, and sticking day in and day out to build a masterful skill requires resilience and a mind of steel. You will need to understand that becoming a master of anything is a lifelong journey. Yes, you will achieve a greater level of understanding and success as time passes, but a true master of skill has sought after a lifelong journey to hone their skill set. There is no achievement of mastery because a master understands that there is always something to be learned. Remember: being a black belt is a never-ending process, not a destination.
