Today’s NaBloPoMo writing prompt states, “Everyone is an expert in something. Tell us three things you’re an expert in.” You know, I struggle with applying this claim to myself – even when it comes to expertise in silly things! – and suspect my issue might lie in the way I would define the word.
See, I have a very particular image in mind when I picture an expert.
- Someone who is the very best at what they do, better than anyone else.
- Someone who is able to do what they do perfectly, masterfully, flawlessly.
- Someone who is an authority on what they do, qualified to educate others.
By my definition, I am most definitely NOT an expert in anything! Really, I am more of a Jack of all trades, master of none – that is, according to Wikipedia, “a person that is competent with many skills, but is not necessarily outstanding in any particular one.” I dabble in a lot of things, and even work hard at some, but am certainly not the best (many, many others are FAR better than I), nor perfect (I make a LOT of mistakes), nor an authority (HA!).
No, my story is not one of expertise, but of a work in progress which (I suspect) will last for the rest of my life.
What do you think? Am I on track with the way I look at the word expert, or am I limiting myself by my definition?
How do you define an expert?
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