I’ve spent a long time wondering why some people seem to pick up new skills in six months, while others take years—or never learn at all. I used to think it was about natural intelligence or the quality of education, but I’ve realized it’s something much deeper: Identity.
The Power of Showing Up
I noticed this clearly when I was taking spoken English classes. I saw students who weren't necessarily "smart" or naturally good at the language, but they showed up every single day. They didn't miss a class, and they did their work consistently. On the other hand, I saw "smarter" students who weren't as interested or consistent, and they didn't improve nearly as much.
The lesson? Even if you aren't the fastest learner, showing up every day changes how you see yourself. It becomes part of your identity. You start thinking, "I am a student of this skill," and that belief makes you learn, even on the days you don't feel like it.
Action Builds Belief
Most of us think we need to believe in ourselves before we start. But I’ve found it works the other way around. You need to do the action over and over again until your brain accepts it as part of who you are.
Think about these basic life skills:
- Riding a Bicycle: We learn by falling and trying again until it becomes second nature.
- Cooking: We view it as a basic necessity, so we just do it until we learn.
- Driving: Even if it's scary at first, we practice because we believe it’s a skill everyone should have.
"The biggest barrier isn't whether you can do it or not; it’s what you think about yourself."
The "Closed Door" Problem
I believe almost everyone knows how to improve their lives—how to earn more money or gain a new skill. The problem isn't a lack of knowledge; it's the "door" that stays closed.
Many people stay inside their comfort zones because they lack the courage to open that door and step outside. They stay stuck in their old identity. But for those who believe they can learn, the door is already open. All they need to do is grab their equipment and go.
Final Thoughts
If you want to learn something fast, stop worrying about your talent. Instead, focus on your actions. If you do the work every day, your brain will eventually adopt a new identity. Once you believe you are the type of person who can do it, the skill will follow.
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