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Adam Smith | March 22, 2013 | Leave a Comment

You Don’t Have To Be Good At It Yet

Everyone wants to go into something being the best at it, but in most cases that just isn’t possible. And that’s ok. So, here are three ways to make the most out of each learning experience and to take something away every single time.

 1. When going into learning situations, keep a teachable mindset.

This will keep the time of learning much easier. If you have an open mind when learning, it actually helps you to retain things. Don’t let your first response be to criticize how someone else does things. Embrace the fact that you can learn something from everyone around you.

2. Give yourself a realistic timeline.

I will say it again. You cannot be good at everything the first time around. Sit down and evaluate what the task is at hand and what all goes into it to make it a success. Then and only then can you make a realistic time table for you to fully grasp what you are learning and how long it should really take for you to be able to do it well. If you don’t reach your goal by that timeline, don’t beat yourself up about it. Move the timeline forward 1-2 more times.

If you still haven’t reached your goals after that, then it is time to reevaluate if the time table isn’t realistic or if point #3 is happening…

3. Know when the things you are pursuing just aren’t for you.

It could be that you have too many goals, or it isn’t the right season for you to accomplish your goals or you are a better fit doing something more in your strengths. I have had the right thing to work on, but have been in the wrong season to work on it before. Now, I’m a big believer that you should work in your strengths and I also think you should give what you are doing all you have got before throwing in the towel, but sometimes it is better to be real with yourself about what you are doing and put time into those things that bring you more value.

Remember, you aren’t an expert at something until you have worked at it for 10,000 hours. Give yourself a break as you pursue your dreams. You can’t be great at everything the first time. Give it your best every time and that is all anyone can ask.

What is something you are working towards to become great at? You can leave your comment below.

Filed Under: Leadership

Adam Smith

I teach people how to have a greater impact through their work and their time. You can read more about me on my about page.

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Hi, my name is Adam Smith and welcome to asmithblog.com. I am the author of the book, The Bravest You. Because of my work as an entrepreneur, consultant, writer, and speaker, I have been named a top industry influencer by American Genius. I live with my wife, Jasmine, and three children in Shenandoah, IA.

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