How to get better at anything (yes, anything)

Have you ever looked at someone who seems to effortlessly excel at everything they do and wondered how they managed it? Maybe you’ve even felt a pang of envy or inadequacy. But the truth is, most people aren’t born with extraordinary talents; they simply master the art of improvement.

This week, I’ve been exploring the science behind getting better at anything. It’s not about sheer luck or innate ability; it’s about understanding how we learn, building effective habits, and cultivating a growth mindset.

On Tuesday's episode of The Brainy Business podcast, I revisited a conversation with habit expert Wendy Wood , author of Good Habits, Bad Habits. Habits are the building blocks of our lives, shaping everything from our routines to our relationships. Understanding how habits form and change is essential for breaking free from negative patterns and creating positive ones. Wendy’s research sheds light on the science behind habit formation, offering practical strategies for cultivating the habits that support our goals.

Today, I had the joy of speaking with Scott H Young , a renowned expert in accelerated learning and achievement. Scott’s work challenges the notion that talent is fixed, emphasizing instead the power of deliberate practice and focused effort. His insights into learning and problem-solving are invaluable for anyone looking to unlock their full potential.

In our conversation today, we discussed insights from his first book Ultralearning, and his newest title, Get Better At Anything. (Yes, please!)

Whether you’re aiming to master a new skill, launch a successful business, or simply improve your overall well-being, the principles of learning and habit formation are essential. By understanding how we learn and developing effective strategies, we can overcome challenges, achieve our goals, and create a life of continuous growth and fulfillment.

Looking for a speaker on this topic? My session “There’s Nothing Magical About Monday” (based on the talk I delivered at TEDxPortland earlier this year) is all about understanding the 4 brain tricks that keep us stuck in the status quo, with 3 steps to get more of the right things done, leveraging 2 powerful words as you accomplish 1 thing at a time.

This talk is a hit with conferences and corporate teams, and I’d love to work with you.

Let’s see if we are a fit for each other.

Be thoughtful,

Melina