5 Essentials for Mastering a Skill

He’s a legendary comic and the namesake of one of the most popular television shows ever.

But now, at 70 years old, Jerry Seinfeld has ventured into the unknown — directing the movie Unfrosted, loosely based on the history of Pop-Tarts.

So, why would a multi-millionaire who’s tasted more success than most could ever imagine try something he has no background in? Why would he take a risk that could draw major criticism?

His answer, in a recent interview with the The New Yorker magazine, is relevant to any coach, executive or teacher trying to propel a career.

“The only thing in life that’s really worth having is good skill. Good skill is the greatest possession,” he said.

“I know a lot of rich people,” he added. “They don’t feel good, as you think they should and would. They’re miserable. Because, if they don’t master a skill, life is unfulfilling.”

Seinfeld said he contemplated the importance of skill mastery after reading an edition of Esquire Magazine decades ago.

The piece highlights five essentials for becoming an expert in something:

1. Instruction

Find a mentor, teacher or accountability partner who has intimate knowledge of our chosen topic or discipline and can provide in-depth feedback as we begin.

“We learn fastest when we get responses,” the article states.

2. Surrender

This means acknowledging where we are isn’t where we want to be in the long run. Mastery requires sacrifice and a stubborn, relentless pursuit of our new endeavor. There will be some life tradeoffs.

3. Practice

It may sound obvious, It’s difficult to improve at anything without getting actual live reps.

Gain relevant, hands-on experience, learn from failures, and apply the newfound knowledge to strategically get better. Then, try again.

4. Mental discipline

Mastery requires us to develop internal fortitude and a larger resolve to stay the course when adversity and setbacks inevitably arise.

Consistency is often more important than intensity, and our bad days may matter more than our good. Regardless of our emotional state, gradual progress is paramount.

5. Playing the edge

Esquire called it “a deliberate negotiation with your abilities. It is an exercise in controlled abandon.”

In essence, it’s giving a little bit more than we think we’re capable of. Then, doing it again the next day, and the day after that.

The point is that rising in an industry is extremely difficult, and there’s seemingly more competition now than ever.

But the best way to distinguish ourselves is rarely to become generalists who follow the masses.

It’s to narrow our focus, cultivate intimate knowledge, and work tirelessly at our craft when others would want to quit.

“Pursue mastery,” Seinfeld said. “That will fulfill your life. You will feel good.”

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