Turning Pro

Shane Parrish wrote an excellent article on the differences between an amateur and a professional. I highly encourage you to read it. Click Here to do so.

A couple of highlights:

Amateurs have a goal. Professionals have a system.

Amateurs wait for someone to recognize their positional, tap them on the shoulder, and give them a big opportunity. Professionals go show people what they are capable of with no expectations.

Amateurs see feedback and coaching as someone criticizing who they are. Professionals know they have blind spots and seek out thoughtful criticism.

Amateurs wait until they feel like it. Professionals do it when they don’t feel like it.

One thing I would add, and keep in mind Shane uses the word “amateur” differently than I do…

Marry the amateur’s “beginner’s mind” and “art for art’s sake” spirit with the professional’s discipline, consistency and work ethic, and you’ve got a home run. Be a Pro-Am.