Develop a Physical Skill with Challenging Training

The truth of it is, we don’t know how good we can be. Chances are, you under-estimate yourself. It’s not that things always come easily. But the power of practice is amazing. You can develop brand-new skills, and you can turn an “average” skill into a highly developed one. This applies to just about anything, but learning a physical skill is a powerful way to learn this, because the change is so visible.

The point of this challenge is not just a new skill – it’s to learn how to learn, especially when the training is hard and takes patience and determination. You will be amazed how powerful and capable you feel once you’ve conquered a skill that always seemed far-off or even impossible.

Getting Started:

1. Think of your options. Can you name at least one physical skill that you’ve always wanted to learn, but seemed too hard? Perhaps wanting to swim or dance, to ride a bicycle well, to be able to shoot hoops, or to ice skate — what is it that you’ve told yourself you can’t do? Another option: is there a physical skill where you see yourself as “average”, but would like to get really good at?
   

2. Choose one physical skill: From the options you thought of in Step 1, could you narrow it down to the skill you are most willing to put time and effort toward learning? If you’re not sure, share your options with someone who knows you well, like a good friend or mentor, and ask if they can help you choose.
   

3. Remind yourself how learning works. Very few things come “instantly” to anyone. Just about everything worthwhile takes time, good coaching, and lots of practice. It’s natural to feel impatient. But the really, really awesome skills will come only with time. You might make yourself a few promises like these:

   I will give myself plenty of time to learn this skill. There is no rush here.

   I do not expect to be good at this instantly, or even soon. I will be gentle with myself and will be happy if I have put good effort in, regardless of the outcome.

   I can learn this faster with help; I will ask a trusted friend or find a teacher to give me guidance on this skill.
   

4. Start Learning: If possible, set a few specific goals for yourself – or maybe ask that trusted friend or teacher, who is already good at the skill, what a reasonable goal is. One goal can be about effort – like wanting to shoot hoops every day for 10 minutes – and another could be about outcomes, like wanting to sink 3 free-throw shots in a row. Then, you’re ready to start.
   

5. Share your story: As with any goal, it is more likely you’ll reach it you share it with trusted friends or mentors. You could tell them exactly what the goal(s) are, and then share updates as you go, including the exciting parts and the frustrating parts.
   

6. Keep Trying. Remember – with time, good coaching, and lots of practice, you will amaze yourself with the skills you can create.