Amateurs vs. Pros — Nr. 121
In every profession, there are always two groups: amateurs and professionals. They could have the same title. They could be in a senior position. But they act and think differently. It’s easy to spot
In every profession, there are always two groups: amateurs and professionals. They could have the same title. They could be in a senior position. But they act and think differently. It’s easy to spot them.
The biggest enemy of our work as a creative person—designers, engineers, entrepreneurs—is mediocrity.
Amateurs accept and dance with mediocrity. They do the work and try to get done with it. They produce mediocre work. Amateur artists rely on people’s opinions. When people said, “It’s pretty good.” Then they’re done with it.
One of the designers was reluctant to change the design because he already did the usability testing, and everything went okay. But if we can spot some gaps or weaknesses in our work internally, then we shall not settle.
Pros can’t tolerate this. They are aware of the deadline to ship. But before they ship, they push the envelope. They look for perfection. They hold a high standard. This doesn’t mean pros are impractical. The pros find the balance between perfection and shipping the work.
Pablo Picasso slashed his own painting. There was a time when he visited the gallery where his paintings were displayed. He marched down with a knife and slashed the paintings. The professionals can spot the weaknesses in their work and know when he has fallen short of his standards.
At one point, we were all an amateur. But it’s vital to turn pro.
Aiming for a higher title is OK, but remember that doesn’t make you a pro.
P.S. As you noticed, I started to blog daily again. I just set a new goal for myself, and to achieve that goal, I need to activate my system to write again. I will explore a little about the distinction between professionals and amateurs.
I’m also glad to reconnect with some of you via email. Thanks for replying to my newsletter and having a conversation :)
Have you read Writing as a skillset or Plan your life and career with ABZ framework?
Awesome post!