Speed and an insane number of repetitions are key to becoming great at any skill, but it's important to enjoy the progress one makes along the way.
As much as I want to write my next piece or the perfect tweet, I take a moment to smile at the portfolio of work I have.
10 years ago, I didn't think I would have the courage to write online. I was even afraid of asking questions about school assignments, worried about being mocked. Now I write freely, even if my ideas are trash or tone-deaf, which has destroyed the fear that plagued my soul.
What about you? What can you be proud of accomplishing as you pursue mastery?
As an avid baker, take pride in your attempts to master how to make fresh dough and perfect pizzas.
As a musician, you can be grateful for the tireless hours spent going up and down the guitar neck and learning theory.
As a growing business owner, you can laugh at the first years of struggle and the fear of whether you made the right call to leave your stable job for a chance at creative freedom.
There's a lot each of us can be grateful for as we continue the master's path.
These once-stressful moments become nuggets of wisdom and funny stories to share.
Before you settle into your hours of deep focused work, take the time to appreciate your progress and smile at the progress still ahead.