Skill Development

TALK IT OUT WITH YOU FRIENDS

You might think talking about your goals is a waste of time, but it really isn’t when you’re trying to improve working in your field. It doesn’t matter if none of your colleagues are good at the instrument you’re currently working on- so long as they’ve got some kind of advice to share (and maybe even a few tips of their own!) the process will benefit everyone involved.

ASK FOR ADVICE

The thing about having skills that are as useful as building new ones is that there’s always someone out there who can help. Just remember to ask for advice — and always be sure to thank your mentor. We’re talking about mentors, people who are good at what they do and who can help you achieve the same results.

SET ASIDE TIME

When it comes down to it, getting better at something doesn’t just happen in the moment — it takes a little bit of planning. It doesn’t matter how you do it — a half hour at the gym, a few free lessons at your local college — but the most important thing is to set aside time in your day for learning.

BREAK IT DOWN

The trick to being able to learn new skills is to take things one step at a time. As long as you have an end goal in mind, you’ll never get stuck in a rut — so use that forward planning and focus on what exactly it is you need to work on. The trick to being able to learn new skills is to take things one step at a time.

BE MINDFUL

When the time comes to get started, come prepared with a good attitude and an open mind. If you’ve set aside some time in your day just for learning new skills you’ll be relaxed and ready to go — so make sure that’s clear on your calendar! It takes discipline to “train your brain” for success, but that mindset will be key to getting things done.