Volume XXIII, Number 41 (Issue 1150) October 13, 2025
Practice Makes Better
Though the expression is “practice makes perfect,” we all know perfection is not readily achieved regardless of how hard we mortals try. Thus, it seems more appropriate to think in terms of practice makes things better and the more we practice, the better they get.
I mention this because in touring the Gustave Caillebotte exhibit I became fascinated by the inclusion of several of the artist’s “studies” within the collection. Such a series of drafts are not something one typically sees, regardless of the art form, and therefore not something we tend to think about. What the audience does see, especially when it comes to the creative arts, is the finished product. Thus, knowing Caillebotte took great pains to practice and practice drawing the hands of the laborers in “The Floor Scrapers,” likewise the nuances of a gentleman holding an umbrella in his “Paris Street; Rainy Day,” lets us know the most talented and committed among us are seldom content with “mailing it in.” Rather, in their quest for excellence, the truly committed are willing to go through iteration after iteration to get things just right.
Including examples of Caillebotte’s studies in the exhibit were meaningful to me. However, when it comes to the written word, not many would want to read the series of drafts I go through in crafting one of my Musings. In that instance the term “irrelevant” comes to mind. Yet there is a lesson here. While I would never place what I do on a plane anywhere close to the work of talented practitioners of the fine arts, I do find it heartening to know gifted individuals – the best of the best – achieve that distinction because they put in the work.
So, the next time you are tasked with a project, especially one where an element of creativity is involved, will you give your best or will you simply
mail it in? Great achievements and great reputations come from great efforts (read: practice).
Soli Deo Gloria
“Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress.” 1 Timothy 4:15
J. Keith Hughey
Mobile: (210) 260-0955
E-mail: keith@jkeithhughey.com
Website: www.jkeithhughey.com
Transforming Potential into Unmatched Performance
Copyright 2025 by J. Keith Hughey. All rights reserved. Permission is hereby granted for reproduction and redistribution of this essay as provided under the copyright laws of the United States of America. Recent issues of Musings may be found at www.jkeithhughey.com. Your comments are always welcome.