I can tell you now that AC/DC lied, or maybe they just weren’t paying enough attention.
As Kathy Sierra points out, ‘the only thing standing between you-as-amateur and you-as-expert is dedication’.
The reason this particular blog entry struck a chord with me (no pun intended) is because friends often frown upon my slow but steady progress with the guitar. In fact, if they see me near the instrument they tend to run away. They don’t understand I guess. Or maybe they do, but enjoy ripping me off. Either way, I committed myself at a rather late stage (mid-twenties) to develop the ability to play the guitar. Apart from that, I’ve also started to build up on my photography skills (me and the other million flickr users… 🙂 ).
Both these activites have nothing to do with my daily work – I’m already an expert in that field, I want to be an expert in other things – and I am passionate about them. As Kathy discusses, it’s the dedication that counts. Hell, if in a couple of years’ time I can line up a brilliant photograph and strum a tune or two at the braaivleis I’ll be gaining a satisfaction with life that’s far higher than any work related reward.
I want more than just that though. I have to find more activities to dedicate myself to.
In what area would you like to be an expert?
Tags: expert, howto, guitar, music, photography, passion, dedication