You need the right tool for the job, but that doesn’t make you Michelangelo

Having the right tool for the job is essential. If you’ve ever worked on your home, your car, or tried to assemble anything and you didn’t have the “right” tool, you know what I’m talking about.

For instance, I have a socket set that has three different ratchets as well as socket for each in shallow and deep well for standard (SAE) and metric. There’s a lot of pieces in this socket set but I am thankful I have it. There’s been countless times when I would just bring the whole mechanics set out with me so I had my full array of tool for any job that I would encounter.

But this set doesn’t tell the whole story. I’d bring my socket set, but forget a pair of pliers or my drill. Just because I have A tool, doesn’t mean it’s the right tool. Likewise, don’t put me on a NASCAR pit crew because I know how to turn a wrench.

This is a great example for life, too. When we arm ourselves with “tools” for life – experiences, mindset, prioritization – we can set ourselves up for success. Having the right mindset and experience will allow us to make the best decisions we can. Whereas without it, we will still make the best decision albeit a poor one. It would be like using a wrench as a hammer. It’ll work, but it won’t be the best.

Becoming a master at anything is less about the tool and more about the craftsman with the tool. When we want to be the best at anything, not only do we need to have the right tools, but we need to have the background, time, and know-how to back it up.

If you ever look at an experienced tradesman work, they can work with any tool for any task. Give them a wrench when they need a socket, they’ll make it work, it’ll just be a pain for them. But give them the right socket with the right ratchet for the job and they’ll make quick work of it.

Make sure you fill up your tool bag with tips and tricks on what takes to be successful and one day you’ll be a master, too.

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