The Nature of Mastery

Let’s ponder this for a moment. Mastery is not a destination but a continuous journey. There is always something or someone from whom we can learn. I would challenge anyone who claims to be an ultimate authority on any subject, as the world is in constant flux. New insights emerge daily, and yesterday's wisdom might not hold true today. Avoid those who present themselves as the definitive source for anything.

Thus, in theory, mastery is an endless process. As you navigate this path, you will naturally produce results that reflect your proficiency in a particular area.

I firmly believe in forging your own path while seeking guidance along the way in any field where you aspire to gain expertise. Therefore, I present two crucial steps to help you on your journey to mastering a skill, allowing you to fill in the details.

Section 1.1: Seek Out a Mentor

Finding a knowledgeable teacher is critical for anyone looking to master a discipline. It is essential to be open and eager to absorb advice and training from those who excel in their field. In other words, cultivate a willingness to learn.

An article from Buffini & Company outlines five steps to achieving mastery, one of which is titled "Surrender." It states,

"Often we are so afraid of looking foolish that we resist surrendering to the process. However, to attain mastery, you must yield to your mentors and the requirements of your discipline. Remember, there are no experts, only learners."

• Buffini & Company

While surrendering to a mentor is vital, it is equally important to ensure that you choose the right one. It may even be advantageous to have multiple mentors.

Reflecting on my own education, the most effective teachers were those who provided us with valuable insights while allowing us the freedom to grow. The best educators desire for their students to surpass them in skill, which necessitates fostering independent thinking rather than relying solely on their methods.

Subsection 1.1.1: Discover Your Process

In the journey toward mastery, establishing a process is essential. To progress from point "A" to point "C," you must first navigate through "B." Preparation often consumes the most time in pursuit of a goal, which is simply part of the equation. Recognizing this, one can deduce that dedicating time to refining and perfecting your process is crucial in the ongoing journey of mastery. The more thorough your preparation, the quicker you are likely to achieve your objectives.

Abraham Lincoln provided a fitting analogy for this idea:

"Give me six hours to chop down a tree, and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe."

• Abraham Lincoln

In this analogy, the goal is to fell a tree within six hours. Lincoln emphasized the importance of preparation, advocating for investing significant time into sharpening the axe before tackling the task. This approach undoubtedly facilitates achieving the desired outcome more efficiently.

After identifying your mentor, focus on developing your process. Utilize the skills imparted by your teacher, hone them, and take action.