Skill vs Talent

I have written on the top of every page in my notebook “Skill vs Talent”.

Why would I do that? Well… most of us don’t really separate the two.  Your natural talent is what you are born with.

Skill is what comes with endless hour upon hour of graft, of utterly sickening dedication and focus.  Skill is what separates your potential from your achievement.

Why is this important enough to write on every page of my notebook?  It serves as a reminder that past success is no excuse for future laziness.  Dedication and focus are the can only come from pushing out of your comfort zone.  Leaving the house, and taking action.

Our Passive Generation

If there is one complaint that can be levelled at the under 30s, it’s that we are remarkably passive.  We sit back and enjoy watching others take a journey, and live through that journey. Why excel at work, when you can critique people on The Apprentice?  Why travel the world, when you can watch I’m a celebrity?  Why socialise when you can watch big brother?

The upside of this ability to observe and critique is that you have more answers inside you than you realise.  Step outside yourself and have a think about what is holding you back.  What’s in your way?  What actions will help you get what you need?

Nothing comes easy, and even less comes without action.  These 3 practical steps you can take right now to break the cycle.

1. Google it.  Find out who others succeeded before you.  Imitate & Improve
2. Share it.  Discuss it with friends, your network is smart
3. Work. Research. Learn. Do.

What is really bugging you right now? Try these 3 steps towards Skill, and report back to us.  Let’s see if we can help.  Compliment your talent with this new skill.  Problem solving.  Employers are crying out for it.