When we watch masters at work they make it look easy – whether playing an instrument, throwing pottery, writing, dance, or speaking, sales, or leadership. Part of this is talent – matching the practice to the unique gifts and passions of the practitioner. The bigger component is technique.

Think of it this way. Every breakthrough, next level, new trick, or creative masterpiece was made possible when someone discovered different or better mastery of a particular technique or discipline; a new competence or understanding of something familiar.

Whatever we’re learning, there are certain aspects we understand and can execute and others that are currently beyond our grasp and ability. What seems easy and what is currently difficult.

So here’s the technique to accelerate any learning process. When given the choice of doing the easy thing well or the more difficult level poorly, apply the 80/20 rule. Eighty percent of the time, make your default choice to do simple things increasingly better, aiming toward perfection.

By “easy” I don’t mean phone it in. I mean elevate your mastery. Find new nuance, and refine your technique with precision. You’ll be amazed at what you continue to learn if you stay curious and humble.

Then, about twenty percent of the time, choose to stretch beyond your current abilities. Pick your moments – when it’s appropriate, safe, or you’re particularly inspired to reach for the next level. And when you do, expand your awareness to capture everything. Build on what works and articulate what didn’t so you can isolate what needs more practice.

Many people constantly struggle with what they barely understand and cannot yet do. When you default to mastering technique, you progress faster. Your scope of confident competence expands. And what was recently difficult becomes easy, working its way into your 80%. And you may soon make breakthroughs that are all your own. Until next week, stay Off Balance On Purpose.