Practice + ?=Progress
How it all started with Brush Lettering practice.
A little practice goes a long way, or so the saying goes. Are Practice and Progress really synonymous? Honestly, there's more to it than that. I believe that knowing the purpose behind what you do is just as important as putting in practice time. Here's why I think practice + purpose = progress.
Practicing any skill is an essential part of improvement. No matter what you're learning, practice is crucial, whether you're learning an instrument, mastering a new language, or developing your leadership skills. Your ability to become proficient in your chosen field can be gradually honed through repetition and refinement.
However, practice alone isn't enough to guarantee progress. Without a clear purpose guiding your efforts, you may be spinning your wheels without making any real headway. Drive gives you direction and focus, helping you to prioritize your efforts and make the most effective use of your time.
So how do you combine practice and purpose to achieve progress? It starts with setting clear goals for yourself. What are you hoping to accomplish through your practice? Whether mastering a specific skill, completing a project, or reaching a personal milestone, having a goal in mind will give you a sense of purpose and help you stay motivated. For instance, every morning, I practice calligraphy at sunrise. I may pick one letter or style, dig into it, and write it repeatedly. I will say, "Dawn, you're going to make the Best damn letter J anyone has ever seen."
Madarasz practice with wood oblique pen and Leonardt Principal nib. Amazing progress from using a marker!
You can develop a practice plan from there that aligns with your goals. This plan might involve breaking down your goal into smaller, achievable steps or focusing on areas you need to improve. By practicing with purpose, you can measure your progress more effectively and adjust as needed.
Practice + purpose = progress. While practice is undoubtedly important, it's only one piece of the puzzle. By understanding the purpose behind your actions and setting clear goals, you can make the most of your practice time and achieve real progress in your chosen area. So next time you think about mindlessly practicing without a clear purpose, take a step back and consider your why.
