PROFICIENCY

I remember the first time that I used the word proficient to describe myself on my resume. Being a humble person who views life as a continual learning process, it felt odd for me to admit that I was actually proficient at something because I truly feel like I’m always learning more. I heard a quote that says, “An expert is a man who has made all the mistakes which can be made in a narrow field.” And I tend to agree. Proficiency normally comes from one’s own expert status being the result of a lengthy battle of trial and error where you’ve exhausted all of the options for failure— ultimately resulting in success. To become an expert (or be considered an expert) takes years of deliberate practice involving goal setting, consistent feedback, and countless drills to improve your skills with an eye on mastery. It does not happen by accident, and takes dedication to build.

That said, the significance of expertise and wisdom in business cannot be overstated. That’s why in this issue we have put together a compilation of invaluable insights and expert advice from local authorities across various industries. The advice provided by our experts finds its roots in their practical experience. From visionary entrepreneurs to seasoned executives, their responses to our questions offer a guide when considering someone from their field—be it a medical expert or home professional, financial advisor, mortgage lender, counselor, insurance advocate, fine art photographer, or travel connoisseur. Our expert contributors share their wealth of knowledge on an array of topics. My hope is that their guidance will provide you with a valuable perspective and strategy to help you choose the right expert from their various specialties (see “Expert Advice Q&A’ starting on page 20). Learning from the experiences of those who have come before us—and who have honed their craft well enough to be called expert—is a powerful tool to make the best decision.

I appreciate the invaluable wisdom of business experts, the excitement of kids returning to school, and the journey of lifelong learning. Just as seasoned business leaders share their insights with us to navigate their industries, students are embarking on another year in their educational journeys—arming themselves with knowledge. As students embrace new subjects, professionals must also embrace new skills to stay relative in a changing world. Proficiency is not permanent. Without lifelong learning the skills required to be called an expert will expire.

ELENA ELLIS Publisher / Editorial Director elena@societylifemagazine.com