The most effective version of you doesn’t take 10,000 hours to discover, you’re already this person.

The times in my life when I’ve been most unhappy and unfulfilled are when I was trying to become the best version of what someone else needed me to be for a particular role. Or doing something out of obligation, rather than purpose and passion.

And conversely, the times in my life when I’ve felt most alive and gratified by my work were when I was doing things that came natural to me. Things that allowed me to be who I am, without apology.

I think the importance of professional authenticity is massively underrated.

And although this doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t pour ourselves into the mastery of a craft or trade, I think it’s worth doing a gut check along the way to determine whose ideal you you’re becoming.