The Difference Between Having a Skill and a Gift.

There are some individuals that are so talented that they do not have to practice their craft repeatedly in order to showcase their skills. Displaying what they can do in front of an audience happens in the drop of a hat and people are in awe of them. While others have to put in the work and time to get where these geniuses are naturally. Which one do you aspire to be like?

In the vast realm of human abilities, there's a clear distinction between those who effortlessly excel and those who tirelessly hone their craft. Two things that have been placed so closely together with such a contrasting effect has fascinated and inspired individuals for generations — the difference between having a skill and possessing a gift. 
 

Some individuals are born with a natural gift for certain activities. These are the ones who seem to possess an innate talent that doesn't require the same level of rigorous practice that others need. Picture the musician who can pick up an instrument and produce melodious tunes without formal training, or the artist who can create breathtaking masterpieces with a few strokes of the brush. Their ability to effortlessly showcase their craft can leave us awestruck.

The gift is often accompanied by a deep passion, an unquenchable thirst to express themselves through their art. While these individuals might not need the same amount of practice to stand out, they still require nurturing and growth to reach their full potential. Without guidance and refinement, even the most gifted can fall short of achieving greatness.

Then there are those who dedicate themselves to the art of practice and improvement. These are the individuals who have refined skills. They understand that excellence is not handed to them on a silver platter, but rather earned through hard work and determination. These are the musicians who spend countless hours rehearsing, the athletes who push their physical limits daily, and the writers who refine their prose through continuous writing and editing.

What sets these individuals apart is their resilience and their unyielding commitment to their craft. They recognize that the journey might be longer and more arduous, but it's in the process of refining their skills that they truly find themselves. And when they do reach the pinnacle of their ability, it's a testament to their dedication and perseverance.

Ultimately, the choice between being gifted and skilled isn't black and white. Being skilled is the route that most people have to go, because talent is not given to many people. There must be a practice and discipline in place that will give these people an edge. Talented individuals need to be mentored, because if they are not, they will not push themselves to practice; because what comes easy is not valued as much. When things get difficult, which it does with everything, they will quit without someone to push them to be their best self. Whether you’re talented or skilled, let AOMA guide you to being the best martial artist and person you can be. Sign up for the A.O.M.A. family and take advantage of the course, Learn the Basics of Martial Arts. Or you can join our monthly membership program, where many are saving 23% on the cyclic courses being offered. It is a wise thing to take these courses in the order that I have laid out, because the previous course sets you up for the following course.