You’ve probably heard different theories, like practicing any skill for 10,000 hours makes you an expert. Maybe you believe that once you reach expert status, you know all there is to know about a topic. When you become an expert in something, you’re seen as a true asset. However, you won’t reach that level by following any hacks or shortcuts.

LaRae Quy, the founder and CEO of the Mental Toughness Center, says that becoming a true expert is serious work. It requires commitment and discipline to stay the course even when progress feels slow. How can you work on becoming an expert in what you do? We share Quy’s tips in this issue of PromoPro Daily.

  1. Start with genuine interest. If you’re not genuinely interested in something, Quy says you’ll give up when the going gets tough. You should be excited to become an expert and show an intrinsic desire to keep learning. According to Quy, when we are interested in something, we turbocharge our thinking and become more motivated and energized in learning more about it. She recommends identifying aspects of your job that resonate most deeply with you.

  2. Know that it won’t be easy. Learning is only easy if you don’t need to think, Quy says. That’s why you’ll find countless books and podcast interviews on how to make self-improvement easy. However, one of the main reasons you can become an expert is that you’re willing to do what other people aren’t willing to do. You’re committed to staying the course without losing motivation, and you’re determined to learning from the setbacks as much as you are from celebrating the wins.

  3. Stay focused. Quy points out that our brains can only process a limited amount of information. This is because the Reticular Activating System (RAS) acts as a filter for our brain. She says that without the RAS filter, we would be overstimulated and distracted by environmental noises. To become an expert, Quy says it’s important to practice mindfulness to discipline yourself to stay focused in the moment. When you are doing something that will sharpen your skill or improve your performance, focus only on that activity.

Even if you’re just starting out in the promo industry, you have what it takes to become an expert. Stay curious, committed and focused. Over time, your efforts will add up and others will see you as a go-to promo pro.

Compiled by Audrey Sellers
Source: LaRae Quy is a former FBI agent and the founder and CEO of the Mental Toughness Center. She’s also the producer of the online training program, Secrets of a Strong Mind.