If the answer to the title of this blog is “YES!!!” than keep reading! In order to be an expert in ANY field doing the minimum amount of education isn’t enough.
Malcolm Gladwell describes in his book Outliers what it takes to become successful in your chosen field. He explains that one of the key components in becoming successful is an extensive amount of experience in your field. He labels this as the “10,000 hour rule”. He states that amongst other things it takes approximately 10,000 hours of experience to become an expert. To support his thesis he examines the lives and successes of The Beatles and Bill Gates. Every time you learn something new or get more experience in a certain subject, you are on you’re way to becoming an expert.
As an esthetician for 12 years and an esthetics instructor for 10 years, I know this to be true. I am constantly reading industry related articles, taking classes, researching a new topic in the industry or attending a trade show. There is no such thing as an overnight success. Every experience in our lives coupled with hard work, dedication and a commitment to education is what creates success and accomplishment.
This past weekend I attended The International Congress of Esthetics and Spa Conference in Philadelphia. I felt a sense of rejuvenation about our industry while I was talking to esthetics educators, vendors and sales representatives from around the country. I was able to see the latest technology in esthetics equipment and ingredients. Just when I thought I knew everything I realized I don’t! Believe it or not, I love that feeling and my hope for my students and for any esthetician out there is that we never lose that sense of curiosity and strive to be better at what we do.
I would encourage every single person reading this blog to go to a trade show, volunteer for events, become a member of an esthetics association, subscribe to a trade magazine or sign up for a continuing education class. I personally know what education and experience has done for me and I hope that this blog inspires you to get out there and be your best!
Deanna Beaver is a New York State licensed esthetician and instructor with 15 years experience in the spa industry. She has been an esthetics educator in New York State for 10 years. Her teaching specialties are in paramedical esthetics and laser technology. She is currently enrolled in an RN program to continue her education and further her career in esthetics. She is presently an educator at New York Institute of Beauty in Islandia, New York. You can contact her via email at dbeaver@nyib.com or at New York Institute of Beauty, 631-582-4737.
