Up-skilling and Adapting a Growth Mindset

Up-skilling is Almost Always Possible

Have you ever hear someone you know answer a question or explain something intricate, and you're like:

And then later you realize, oh, that's just something that they've learned either a piece of knowledge or a new skill, and I can learn that too.

I remember being in my early 20s (bless your heart, mini-Bagel), and thinking, “How do my friends know so much about politics and current events? And why do they care?” (Yeah, I was just a little green back then…)

Now that I’m older and wiser (just ask the gray in my beard 🧔🏻‍♂️), I’ve realized that “being knowledgeable” isn’t some magic potion you drink or a superpower you’re born with.

For example, I can sign up for a few trusted news outlets and podcasts, spend ~15 minutes/day digesting the most important stories and feel prepared to have a somewhat thoughtful conversation about what’s going on in the world.

It’s more about focused attention than it is about natural intelligence.

Think about that friend who’s really good at fixing your computer or TV (you know the one). I bet all they did was restart, unplug and replug in some cables, and maybe follow some other directions straight from YouTube.

Are they a genius? Or just good at following directions?

I’m not saying there aren’t really smart people who are exceptionally good at specific things (I don’t know why a clockmaker is the first thing that comes to mind…)

Do you want to learn something new but it feels unreachable? Or perhaps you don’t even know how?

Just start. Take that first step. Break it down in chunks after that. You’ll find out pretty quickly if it’s something you want to continue dedicating time and attention to, and if you do, you’ll find that you can learn the thing more quickly than you think.

Reader’s Respond

Last week, I posted about learning to say ‘no’, especially for people-pleasers and those who put others’ needs first.

Here is a response from an avid LYV Reader:

See ya next week!

🥯 Bagel 🥯