Apparently it's a number, which is 10,000 - that is 10,000 hours of training!
It appears Mozart spent 10,000 hours learning to compose, Bill Gates spent 10,000 hours learning to programme, and the Beatles spent 10,000 hours learning to play together. Not withstanding some level of luck, it seems that it takes around 10,000 hours of hard work/training to really achieve and reach the top of your sport, business, sector, profession.
It isn't just about gifted individuals, it applies to everyone. It isn't just about raw talent, but the willingness and determination to practice again and again and again.....to achieve the perfect punch, kick, block, foot movement and that most elusive - balance, will inevitably pay off and propel you to the top..
But how long is 10,000 hrs? Firstly, you are not going to do it in a year! Simple math says 24 hrs x 365 days = 8,760 hrs - a shortfall of just under 1,300 hrs. Even in 3 years you need to be practicing 9 hours per day EVERY DAY to reach 10,000.
I think shows that total commitment and immersion in what you like, enjoy and believe in is fundamental to reaching the pinnacle of whatever it is that you do.
Talk a look at the book OUTLIERS from Malcolm Galdwell, which exlores the success of a variety of people. So now when your Sensei tells you to do a thousand front kicks, you may respond differently. Have fun....and i am sure you can do your own math to see how it will take you to master your art..
