Article by Kimberly Ward Manning
Photo Credit: Jana Cruder
Magazine: Issue #23
Mastery is defined as accomplished knowledge or control over something. It is not “able to do.” I can play the piano, however, Alicia Keys has mastery over the piano. That’s not to say that at some point I won’t master the ivories.
Whatever it is that you’re looking to gain superiority over, here are some secrets you need to know.
1| 10,000 hours. In his book Outliers, Malcolm Gladwell speaks of a “Law of Deliberate Success,” that in order to be world class at something, one needs to invest a lot of time (about 10,000 hours) in that endeavor. If you want to get really good, get busy.
2| Divine guidance. Hard work is one way to success. While it may sound woo-woo, access to your gifts through the Divine is also possible. Think child prodigies and HH Dalai Lama.
3| The path to mastery is paved with some boo-boos. To be successful at anything you must have the courage to make mistakes. “Take chances. Make mistakes. That’s how you grow.” Beautifully said by Mary Tyler Moore.
4| Mastery is its own reward. Sure it’s nice to have the carrot at the end of the stick, however, mastery is an intrinsic carrot. Mastery of anything implies a love of that thing. When we love to do something, extrinsic motivation isn’t necessary. So throw the sticks and veggies aside and get down to doing what you love.
5| Share your gift. How do you know you really rock at something? Teach it. Have you noticed when you show another your skill or talent, not only do you illuminate the other person, but you become really sure of what you know (and what you don’t)? This is service to others, and to your mastered gift.
