#masteryrobertgreene

I've started prepping for my first class starting in June, "Mastery: Personal Development and Leadership". The summary explains that we will be learning about the difference between just learning about different subjects, and instead truly digging down specifically into one area of expertise; immersing yourself in it, absorbing what you can from experts in the field, and ruminating on the outcomes until you can come up with your own personal perspective on the subject and how you can start to become a master in your own right.

I've started reading the course material, "Mastery" by Robert Greene. I've completed the introduction (a long one) and I'm intrigued by his ideas on the evolution of man. He believe that one of man's greatest tools for advancement was not standing upright or opposable thumbs (although they helped); but the capacity to be able to take time to observe and learn to change the outcomes of the world around us.

He states that while raw talent is definitely an advantage, it is by no means the only way that people can achieve a level of mastery or a subject. Even an "average" person can excel in their chosen field or talent if they take the time to really study and understand the subject. With enough time and practice, anyone can rewire their brains to fully grasp an area of study.

But if you depend on "God given talent" to pull you through alone, you are likely to be disappointed on the distance it will take you. He uses Charles Darwin as an example of a man who had a natural talent and curiosity for biology - but only became the influence he is to this day due to the dedication and time spent focusing on his subjects.

I'm not sure exactly what kind of usable advice I'll be able to get out of this text. Granted, I'm only on the introduction - but I read a lot and several books similar to these give you a hopeful first impression, only to leave you with a "just really work hard and you can do it!" final message that falls flat.