In my last post, I wrote about the call to excellence and how we are lovingly called by God to get better at our craft in order to glorify Him. I thought I’d spend a quick minute offering some things I’ve learned in terms of getting better at something. I’ve also asked for some input from some friends for their thoughts as well. Some of these examples are for musicians, but the principles apply for everyone.
1. Practice. Goes without saying, but I’ve got to say it.
2. Hang out with people more talented than you. If you are the best in your group, you probably won’t grow at the desired rate. Surround yourself with people who are on a completely different level.
3. When you get comfortable in your skills, get uncomfortable. Find a situation where you may be over you head. Comfort goes out the widow quickly.
4. Experience the way other people do things.
5. Change your environment or your routine.
6. Changing your routine shouldn’t affect the discipline of doing what you are doing to get better. It just makes you think differently.
7. Figure out ways to play a riff or chord progression in a completely different place on the fretboard or different key. If you learn a song, learn it in every key. This increases time you spend with the instrument as well as giving your brain a workout as you transpose on the fly.
8. Record yourself playing something you know really well. You may find there are elements of your playing/tone/technique that need a little work. You also might be pleasantly surprised and find some encouragement from hearing hard work pay off.
9. Ask a trusted friend to critique your playing/singing. Sometimes, having someone watch and listen from the audience’s perspective can really bring light into some areas that may need a little work.
10. Recognize that there’s always room to grow. You can always find an area of your craft that needs work. If you hit a wall, have the courage to ask for help.
I sincerely hope these are some things that can help you along in your journey.
Feel free to share the tips you’ve learned in the comments section!
In Christ,
Stewart
