Mastery Takes Practice

“If people knew how hard I worked to get my mastery, it wouldn’t seem so wonderful at all.” – Michelangelo

In an age of endless walkthrough videos, it is easier than ever to learn about a subject. Experts post to explain everything from the best way to tie your shoes to how to build a laser bazooka¹. Watching one hundred “how-to” videos does not make you a master. Mastery takes practice.

In some cases, mastery is enforced. To fly for commercial airlines an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license is required which needs a minimum of 1500 hours of flight time². To achieve a career as a doctor, schooling and the residency program adds up to approximately 10-14 years³. Both of these examples require time invested in doing the actual job, on top of any book learning. It demonstrates hands on experience is absolutely necessary to get better at something. Nobody wants to get on a plane where the pilot has only watched “how-to” videos about flying.

Chances are, you will not be in a position where mastery is enforced but that is no reason not to pursue it. We would like to note book/online learning is important, but is not enough on its own. If you want to be a better painter, you have to paint. If you want to be a better public speaker, you have to give speeches. If you want to be a better friend, you have to invest time. Pick a field or hobby and practice, practice, then practice some more. Everyday is a chance to improve. Put in the work and forge a path towards mastery.

Action: Pick a thing or field you want to improve at. Practice every day this week.

Disclaimer: Always know your limits before diving into any project. Seriously, don’t try and build a laser bazooka.

Further Reading:

1. This 200W Laser Bazooka Is a Work of Mad Genius
2. How Many Hours It Takes to Become a Pilot?
3. How Long is Medical School in 2023