Whether you hate him or love him, Justin Bieber can teach you and I a lot about mastering our craft.
If you’ve never see Bieber’s Documentary, Never Say Never, got out now and rent it. You will be surprised how much you can learn from him, and you will respect the guy (kid?) a lot more.
Here are four things this popstar sensation can teach us about skill mastery:
1. Never say never
In the film, interviews, books, and music, a constant theme for Justin Bieber is never say never. Bieber never allowed himself to take “no” or “never” as the conclusion. He was determined to master his craft – singing and music – and become a singer/popstar. He wouldn’t let himself be denied.
The greatest temptation facing us when trying to learn and master a new skill is the temptation to give up.
Becoming really, really good at something is not easy. It’s not like ordering a happy meal at the drive thru. It takes practice, work, sweat, blood, perseverance, and a “never say never” attitude.
2. Close your eyes, pray, and see a better day
Justin Bieber is a man of faith. He believes in Yahweh, and he prays. This is part of what keeps him going. Because he believes in God, he’s got drive, energy, passion, and perseverance, and prayer. This gives him vision for what the future could be, which is motivating as well.
No matter what skill you’re trying to master, or what goal you are trying to reach, involve God, trust God, and be hopeful about the future.
3. Practice, Practice, Practice
One of the things I admired most about Justin Bieber after seeing his documentary, was how much he practiced his craft. He was singing, playing music, and becoming a master musician and singer every day. He practiced his craft daily. Practicing your craft every day is essential for becoming a master at it.
4. Keep your faith in God strong in the midst of fame
This one is a bit uncertain, because I don’t truly know where Bieber’s faith stands today, right now. I do now though, from watching the film at least, that Bieber didn’t shipwreck his faith when he became popular. He kept the faith and acknowledged God as the one who blessed him with this gift. That is a true sign of humility and gratitude.
Don’t overlook the power or value of mastering a skill (or, skills). Proverbs 22:29 says:
“Do you see a man skillful in his work?
He will stand before kings;
he will not stand before obscure men.”
The truth is, being skilled at a craft is invaluable. It’s an asset. It’s something people will (possibly) pay you for. Whether you want to become a writer, master chef, programmer, designer, professional athlete, musician, businessman, parent, carpenter, or artist, follow the Justin Bieber Guide to mastering that skill.
Who knows…you may end up being the next Justin Bieber in your industry.
Question: What skill are you working on right now? What skill(s) would you like to develop? Tell us about it in the comments!
Image Carrie Stern
Hey Roman,
LOVED this one! It was encouraging for me because, as you know, I’m trying to pursue my passion for writing. I am really enjoying blogging but sometimes I feel really discouraged because I don’t get any comments and/or many hits. So, I thank you for the encouragement here to persevere and to trust God.
Keep writing son. You definitely have a gift.
love you dearly,
Mom:)