In this phase, you’re aware of what it means to be competent, and you’re aware of the kind of practice you need to do in order to reach that competence, whether it’s totally owning an open mic performance of a new tune you wrote, playing flawlessly for your spring concert, nailing an audition, or dominating a competition. With well-managed goals, diligent practice, and perseverance, anybody can reach this level. There is yet one more level, however, inhabited by the greatest of players.
