Old school theories such as, “Practice makes perfect,” inspired today’s post. A quote from Martha Graham and a value my Grandmother instilled … along with many teachers and coaches I had growing up also.
There is much debate over the 10,000 hour rule, but one thing is for certain, practicing a skill improves that skill. Whether cooking, raising children, perfecting art, or building a new website, with excellent instruction … experience improves with time. I know this sounds like a mom advice column, but after all I am a mom. Hundreds of thousands of hours of motherhood have given me much to learn along the way.
“I believe that we learn by practice. Whether it means to learn to dance by practicing dancing or to learn to live by practicing living, the principles are the same. Practice means to perform, over and over again in the face of all obstacles, some act of vision, of faith, of desire. Practice is a means of inviting the perfection desired.” – Martha Graham
Practice Learning: Every good coach will define a set of goals first. Those goals usually include teaching, time, and duties to perform. Online classrooms are essential for developing technical skills. We have so many options today to become life long learners … Millennials upwards to 110 years … the sky is the limit in our internet age. Defining your goals is the first step. Your plan of achievement is next.
Practice Living: Enjoy a bit of intention and repetition. It all goes a long way toward a better life.
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Attitude
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Sincerity
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Initiative
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Integrity
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Honesty
You have everything to gain with these values. Full circle.
Practice Performing: Yup, performing is a verb. If you want to become a better speaker, practice. If you want to be great at relationships, set a value standard and live it. If you want to learn to dance – learn, work, and implement a routine repeat. If you want to get a new job, plan that achievement … one-step-at-a time.
“Practice is to invite the desired outcome. Experience is essential to skill building and achievement.” -Michelle Bradford
Perfection? No one can claim that. Be bold and satisfied. Be your own hero because when each day ends you will have the peace of mind that you are becoming the best you can be.