When I’m working to prepare a lesson, develop a workshop activity, or write a blog sometimes the process goes quickly. At moments like this, I’m reminded of a saying a friend shared: “It took you 20 minutes and 20 years of preparation.”
There is a vast difference between “winging it” and relying on years of experience that can contribute to the task at hand. It’s not just for teachers or writers – carpenters require 20 minutes + 20 years to know how to make a cut that’s just right; doctors rely on 20 minutes + 20 years to correctly diagnose a disease; artists use 20 minutes + 20 years to know where to draw that initial outline.
Enjoy those rare moments when your skill comes easily, but don’t discount the years of practice that got you to this point. You are worth your value in years, not minutes.
Originally published in modified form on October 25, 2019