Posted on January 15, 2025

As a child learning how to play a musical instrument, my music teacher taught me this lesson. If you practice the song incorrectly over and over, how can the practice make perfect?

We hear this echoed countless times in classrooms, sports fields, and even in everyday conversations. While there's certainly truth to the idea that repetition can refine skills, it's crucial to understand a critical nuance: practice makes permanent.

Think about it. If you're an online presenter, practicing a monotone delivery with awkward pauses will only solidify those habits. You'll become proficient at giving a poor presentation. 

The same goes for a car salesperson. If you consistently mispronounce features or stumble over technical details during your walk-around, practice will simply engrain those mistakes.

Real estate agents, too, can fall into this trap. If you practice highlighting the wrong features of a home or delivering your presentation in a rushed, unengaging manner, you'll become adept at showcasing properties poorly.

Perfect practice, however, is a different beast entirely. It requires conscious effort and a focus on quality over quantity. Online presenters must practice with energy, varying their tone and pace, and incorporating engaging visuals.

Car salespeople need to meticulously research vehicle specifications, practice clear and concise explanations, and refine their customer interaction skills. Real estate agents should meticulously prepare their presentations, highlighting the unique selling points of each property, and practicing their delivery with confidence and enthusiasm.

The key lies in identifying areas for improvement and diligently working to correct them. This might involve recording yourself during practice sessions, seeking feedback from mentors or colleagues, and breaking down complex tasks into smaller, more manageable steps.

It's about striving for excellence in every repetition, ensuring that each practice session reinforces the desired outcome.

Ultimately, "practice makes perfect" only holds true if the practice itself is perfect. By focusing on quality over quantity and consistently striving for improvement, individuals can truly master their craft, whether it's delivering captivating presentations, showcasing vehicles with expertise, or guiding clients through the exciting process of finding their dream home.