"La plus grande éducation au monde est de regarder les maîtres à l'œuvre"

Watching experts at work is like having a front-row seat to the best classroom you could ever attend. When you see someone who’s truly skilled in their craft, there’s so much you can absorb just by paying attention. Think of it as learning through osmosis; you soak up the techniques, the little nuances, the passion, and the dedication that make them great.

This idea has been around forever. It’s why apprenticeships and mentorships have stood the test of time. You learn the ropes by shadowing someone who’s been there and done that. Imagine being a young artist in Renaissance Italy, watching Michelangelo paint the Sistine Chapel. You’re not just learning how to mix colors or hold a brush—you’re witnessing genius. That’s knowledge you can’t get from a book.

Take Serena Williams, for example. She didn’t become one of the greatest tennis players by just reading about how to serve or volley. She watched the pros, practiced with them, picked up on the subtle shifts in footwork and positioning, and internalized the discipline and mental toughness required to win.

So, how can you take this concept and run with it in your own life? Well, start by identifying a few masters in your field. Let’s say you’re an aspiring chef. Spend time in the kitchen with a seasoned professional. Watch how they handle a knife, how they time their dishes, how they deal with the inevitable chaos of a busy service. And don’t just watch—ask questions. People love sharing their wisdom, especially when they see you’re genuinely interested.

Now, picture this: You're a young journalist fresh out of college. You land an internship at a big newspaper. On your first day, you’re shadowing a seasoned reporter, let’s call him Jim. Jim’s been in the game for over 20 years; he’s seen it all. He doesn’t just write stories—he crafts them. You watch him as he interviews sources, scribbles notes, and weaves information into compelling narratives. You notice how he builds rapport with his sources, making them comfortable enough to open up. One day, he turns to you and says, "The best stories aren’t found—they’re felt." That sticks with you.

You start applying what you’ve seen. You imitate Jim’s methods, but you add your twist. Gradually, you find your voice, and before you know it, you’re not just writing stories—you’re telling them in a way that resonates.

The key takeaway here? Immerse yourself in the presence of those who excel and take notes—literally and mentally. Soak in their habits, their mindset, their approach to challenges. And remember, it’s not about copying them exactly. It’s about learning the essence of what makes them great and then making it your own.

In short, the best way to learn isn’t always from a textbook or a lecture—it’s from watching the masters in action and taking those lessons to heart.