[falcolas]

Not just smarter, but on real problems, and the really boring parts.

It was a really good read, and applies to more than just learning the Cello. I particularly loved the bit about how it's easier for children to pick up new things, because they don't know (or care) how bad they are. I know feeling self conscious about things definitely impairs my ability to learn things I really love from the outside.

[agumonkey]

Alright, but it's a crucial thing to approach 'real' or 'boring' with a smart, lazy, peaceful and patient mindset.

The kid psychology is great, I abused it as an adult to keep doing things even though I failed. But it's only part of the solution, otherwise you diverge and never progress really. Kids do progress (beside a natural libido and brain state eager to learn) because they aim at things at their level (with other kids of their level), and have good tests to ensure quality (real life like balancing on a bike, or teachers). To me this is the process that breed internal change.

With time you learn to balance not caring too much with moments of diligent precision so you feel good without wasting time.