If you ever feel like it’s too late for you to learn something new or go for what you really want, listen to this episode for a reframe that I learned from a few movie masters in New Zealand. The next time you feel bored, uninspired, or unremarkable, I hope it inspires you to see the world (and yourself) again with fresh eyes. Here’s how to tap into your creative potential…

Listen to Episode 151 of the Bright Life Podcast: Tapping Into Your Creative Potential

The Magic of 200 Hours: Becoming an Expert

While in New Zealand, I had the chance to visit a warehouse where they create props for movies. All of the props for your favorite sci-fi movies—think swords for Lord of the Rings, costumes for Power Rangers, and gadgets in fantasy films—are made here.

I had the chance to chat with some of the artists working there, and one of them shared a perspective that really stuck with me. He mentioned how disheartening it is to see kids these days spending hundreds of hours on video games or watching TV, when that time could be spent mastering an art form.

Hmm… guilty as well, I thought. How often do we, as adults, do this, too? I’m definitely guilty of scrolling through social media or binge-watching TV shows. While there’s nothing wrong with unwinding like this from time to time, imagine if we redirected even some of that time toward learning something new.

The artist mentioned that 200 hours of focused effort could make you proficient in almost anything. Whether it’s learning to cook, picking up a new language, or honing a craft like painting or writing, those 200 hours could open doors to new careers, relationships, income streams, or passions.

Everyone Starts Somewhere

Another important takeaway they shared is that everyone starts somewhere. If you’re trying something new and feel like you’re not getting it, remember that expertise takes time.

Malcolm Gladwell talks about the 10,000-hour rule in his best-selling book Outliers. That’s how long it takes to become a world-class expert. But you can get really GOOD at something with even just 200 hours of practice.

So, if you’re frustrated because others seem better at something than you are, ask yourself: Have I put in those 200 hours yet? If not, keep going. It’s likely that the people who are better have simply invested more time. The journey to expertise isn’t about being a natural; it’s about persistence and practice. Whatever new skill or hobby you’re working on, keep pushing forward. Your time and effort will pay off. Keep chipping away at those 200 hours!

Choosing Your Expertise: The World Is Your Playground

The third lesson I learned is that we all have the ability to become experts in anything we choose. Sometimes we get stuck thinking we’ve already decided what we’re good at or not. But the truth is, the playing field is wide open. Whether you want to become an expert in cooking, interior design, or even something as niche as making movie props, the resources are out there. We live in an age where you can learn anything online—there are literally courses for everything!

Embracing a Learner’s List

Inspired by these insights, I’ve started making a list of things I want to learn. Jesse Itzler, a motivational speaker and the husband of Spanx founder Sara Blakely, described making a list of 50 things he wanted to learn at 50. This could range from taking a single class like surfing, to becoming an expert in karate. I love this idea of embracing a learner’s spirit and constantly expanding our horizons.

If you’re feeling uninspired or unmotivated, consider making your own list. What new skill or subject could you dive into with those 200 hours? The next time you find yourself scrolling mindlessly or unsure of what to do with your free time, revisit that list and see what you can learn or explore. If you have something you’ve been itching to learn, start today—those 200 hours will pass quicker than you think, and you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve.

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