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Bad news is, what you learned 20 years ago has most likely been superseded. Mastering a new skill or refreshing an old one can give us deep satisfaction on many levels, such as providing a sense of achievement, community and sparking new ideas. As your skill develops it may even take you places you would not have imagined possible.

Here are 4 things you can do to brush up your skills:

SCAN YOUR NETWORK

Who in your network can teach you a new skill, and who do you want to learn from? Is there anyone in particular you admire for a certain talent? At the same time offer your own skills to share with your community. For example, if you’re good at baking, invite friends for a cookie-baking get-together. It feels good to share what you know and might even offer you inspiration.

LEARN A LANGUAGE

I like to know at least a few expressions in the local language when I travel. And when I’m in the specific country, it is quite easy to pick them up. This doesn’t mean learning another language is only for travellers. In fact, making an effort and understanding other cultures can improve our own communication skills, give us insights into certain behavioural patterns we may see amongst people we know, and last but not least it can give us a reason to travel and practice our acquired skill.

FIND JOY IN WHAT YOU HATE

How about making a conscious effort in liking a task that you know you hate? If it’s washing the dishes, put some music on, get good dishwashing liquid, and a decent dish brush. With these bits of preparation it’s only a matter of fighting the ego, that tells you what you like and what you don’t. Show your ego that you are stronger and turn your aversion into pleasure. Try a Body Ride class, even if you hate cycling!!

MAKE USE OF TECHNOLOGY

So your skill has aged because you haven’t kept up with the tools of the trade? Maybe you are a good skier, but descend on a pair of tooth picks? And you could be so much better with a pair of carvers? Update your tool now and stop fighting technological advancements. You could surprise yourself and others with newly-found progression after years of plateauing.