Train like an athlete, even if you aren't one

David Perell has something interesting to say about what knowledge workers should do.

"Learn like an athlete."

Athletes have a strict training regimen that is almost monomaniacal. They need one. That's how they get the gold.

In every domain, training is essential, says David.

Here's an excerpt worth pondering:

Athletes train. Musicians train. Performers train. But knowledge workers don’t. 

Knowledge workers should train like LeBron, and implement strict “learning plans.” To be sure, intellectual life is different from basketball. Success is harder to measure and the metrics for improvement aren’t quite as clear. Even then, there’s a lot to learn from the way top athletes train. They are clear in their objectives and deliberate in their pursuit of improvement.

Knowledge workers should imitate them.

If you want to know more about David's exhortation to learn like an athlete, read his essay. It's time well spent.