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Creators Are Not Artists
But the best ones are.
This morning, I noticed a new neighbor practicing his fly fishing throw in the backyard.
He has gray hair and looks retired, enjoying his life in Florida. I watched him as he threw his line repeatedly, aiming at two small orange cones as targets. I know nothing about fly fishing but appreciate the delicate, patient art.
Watching this man made me think of my craft and skills and how they relate to fly fishing.
You can catch a fish. That’s the utility and value of the craft. But then there is the art of fishing. Only artists can master their craft.
When you become an artist, you position yourself to innovate, change everything you touch, and become the best of what you do.
As I watched this fly fisherman practicing his throw on the green grass, I thought of three things we could learn.
1. Focus on What Matters
This fisherman was not in water. He was not fishing, but he focused on what was important. He knew he would be successful if he could get the line out far enough in the water and snap up the right way.
As craftspeople, we need to recognize the area that produces the most results and become masters in it.
