Practice Makes Better

November 28, 2006 in Leadership with 3 Comments

I read a fascinating quote from K. Anders Ericsson, a professor of psychology at Florida State University, in the November issue of Fast Company. He was talking about the importance of practice.

“Successful people spontaneously do things differently from those individuals who stagnate. They have different practice histories. Elite performers engage in what we call “deliberate practice”–an effortful activity designed to improve individual target performance. There has to be some way they’re innovating in the way they do things.”

As I read that, it made me think about ways that I’m trying to be disciplined in my life to become successful. In case you’re curious, here are some ways I’m currently “deliberately practicing” to improve my performance:

  • I’m reading through the Bible again and posting my notes on my blog to keep me focused (and hopefully encourage you).
  • I’ve scheduled a two-week vacation with my family next month to relax and renew and build new memories together.
  • I’m reading through The E-Myth Revisited with my ministry team at the encouragement of a couple of guys from North Point.
  • I’m exercising regularly. I use the weight equipment and run at Anytime Fitness next door to the church. (I love the “anytime” part of Anytime Fitness.)

I don’t know about you, but I tend to get sloppy when I’m not disciplined. When that happens, I don’t perform at full strength. It also impacts how I relate with others. I prefer to always bring my best game. It’s not easy though. The good thing is I think God wants to help us remain disciplined. This comes through in the encouragement Timothy gave those with the gift of teaching:

“Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers” (I Timothy 4:15-16).

What a great reminder! The disciplines in my life not only impact who I am, but they also impact others around me.

3 Responses to “Practice Makes Better”

  1. Storms November 28, 2006 at 9:58 am #

    “The disciplines in my life not only impact who I am, but they also impact others around me.”

    That’s a great statement. Just reading your post encourages me to be more disciplined & think about a list for myself of things I want to do. I definitely think there’s something attactive about someone living a disciplined life, that makes people want to emulate it.

  2. Regan November 28, 2006 at 11:51 am #

    Hey Tony!

    I agree that discipline and focus are important to achieving success.

    For myself, I’m using my web site to keep me focused on my Toastmasters program. The need to keep it fresh and post regularly is a daily reminder of my committment to the program.

    I am studying for my CGA part-time. That takes a lot of focus, discipline, and determination.

    In terms of interacting with others, I find that “iron sharpens iron” applies. When we are focused and disciplined it rubs off on others. And likewise vice versa.

    Although it’s not always easy, I feel better about working steadily towards meaningful goals.

    Have a great day!

    Regan

  3. Rich Schmidt November 28, 2006 at 5:26 pm #

    Thanks, Tony! These are words I needed to hear today.