"Développez la compétence et l'argent suivra"

The essence of the saying "Build the skill, and the money will follow" is all about prioritizing skill development over immediate financial gain. It suggests that if you focus on honing your abilities and becoming really good at what you do, the financial rewards will naturally come later. The idea here is pretty straightforward: master your craft first and the money will find its way to you.

Let's talk history for a second. This idea isn't new. It's been around for ages in different forms. Think about the old apprenticeships in medieval Europe. Back then, young people would learn a trade—blacksmithing, carpentry, you name it—by working under a master for years. Earning money wasn't the initial goal; becoming skilled was. Eventually, those who mastered their trade would set up their own shops and reap the financial rewards.

But how does this play out in the real world today? Take Steve Jobs, for example. When he started Apple with Steve Wozniak, their focus wasn't on how much money they could make. They were passionate about building computers and making technology accessible. They poured their energy into creating innovative products. And, well, we all know how that turned out. Apple became one of the most valuable companies in the world. The money followed their skills and innovation.

Now, you might be wondering how you can apply this in your own life. Here's some practical advice: find something you're passionate about and commit to becoming really good at it. It could be coding, writing, cooking—whatever floats your boat. Dedicate time every day to practice and improve. Seek out mentors, take courses, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Over time, as you get better, opportunities will start to come your way. People are naturally drawn to expertise and excellence.

Imagine you're a budding musician. You love playing the guitar and dream of making a living out of it. Instead of focusing solely on getting gigs that pay well immediately, spend your time mastering your instrument. Play at open mics, join jam sessions, and maybe even offer free lessons. As your skills improve, you'll start getting noticed. Maybe a local band needs a guitarist, or a music producer hears you play and is impressed. These opportunities can lead to paid gigs, recording contracts, or even teaching positions. The money follows your skill.

Let's consider a relatable story. Think about Sarah, an accountant who’s always been good with numbers. She’s got a stable job, but she’s passionate about baking. Every weekend, she’s in her kitchen experimenting with new recipes. At first, she just shares her creations with friends and family. They love her cakes and encourage her to sell them. Sarah doesn’t quit her job right away. Instead, she starts a small side business, slowly building her skills and reputation. She takes baking courses, learns marketing, and even attends pastry workshops. Over time, her small side business grows. She gets more orders, starts catering for events, and eventually, she can leave her accounting job to run her bakery full-time. Her skill in baking, cultivated over time, has led to financial success.

To sum it up, focus on becoming excellent at what you do. The money will come as a byproduct of your skill and dedication. It’s like planting a tree—nurture it with care, and it will eventually bear fruit. So, what skill are you going to build next?