A Case Against Mastery?

In business, we often talk about the achievement of mastery. If we're being Arthur C. Clark-ian about it, then we're trying to attain a skillset so sophisticated it seems "magical" to others. That can be a great thing, but it can also be a trap. Ask yourself, "If I'm a master, what comes after?"

My wife and I enjoyed a recent vacation to Dallas. While walking around the Deep Ellum area, we encountered an amazing barbershop. Being a sucker for an old fashioned straight razor shave, I decided to indulge.

It started off well. My barber, Tre, spent the requisite time asking me questions about past shaves and preferences. He then placed a steaming hot towel over my face (always my favorite part). Just as I was beginning to relax, he said, "Sir, I'll be right back. I just need to inform my instructor that I'm about to start your shave."

WHAT???? My mind began racing. Visions of Sweeney Todd danced in my head. Should I get up and go? How do I know this student won't savage my face? I won't lie, I was pretty concerned. After all, having another human hold a razor blade against your face and neck is the ultimate trust exercise.

Several calming breaths later, the shave commenced...and it was a great experience! Afterwards, I reflected on the nature of mastery and why my shave went so well. Here's what I decided:

• As a student, Tre intentionally took longer with the process and made mindful, deliberate decisions with each flick of the razor.
• Knowing he was being evaluated, Tre ensured that he was following the protocols of a great shave to the letter and beyond (I did not complain about getting 4 hot towels).
• At the end, he went one more extra mile and asked, "Shawn, I kind of messed up your hair. Would you mind if I styled it?"
• My facial hair is very coarse, which has been the bane of many-a-barber. Tre pointed this out and asked if my experience was good, despite the challenge my stubble presented to him.

As practitioners of any career field, yes, we should always attempt the journey of mastery. Those lofty goals can be the fuel that drives us to be better, to do better. I encourage you to think of yourself as a perpetual student. Stop from time to time and ask, "What little thing can I do today to make myself just one step better at this skillset? What small attention to detail can I offer to my (colleague, customer, employee or manager) to tick myself a notch closer towards mastery?"