There’s a peculiar kind of confidence African moms have in the kitchen. They’ll toss salt into a pot without hesitation, no measuring spoon in sight. The result? A perfectly seasoned meal — flavorful and balanced. Meanwhile, young cooks might meticulously measure their salt and still miss the mark, either over-seasoning or under-seasoning the dish.

This everyday act in many African households holds a powerful lesson for techies and career professionals: mastery comes through repetition, not perfection.

The Power of Doing

Confidence doesn’t magically appear overnight. It is forged in the fire of practice, mistakes, and learning. Just as a mother knows instinctively how much salt is “just right” after years of cooking, you, too, can develop a deep understanding of your craft by showing up consistently and doing the work.

In the world of technology or any career, it’s tempting to rely on formulas, tutorials, or structured learning. But true mastery emerges when you go beyond learning to doing. Repetition solidifies intuition. Over time, you’ll make decisions with the same kind of confident ease as an experienced chef.

The Lesson of Mistakes

Even African moms occasionally make a dish that’s too salty or bland — it happens to the best. Yet, they don’t dwell on it. They adjust, adapt, and try again the next time. The same applies to your career. Mistakes are inevitable, but they are also invaluable. Each misstep is a lesson, a seasoning adjustment for the next attempt.

Consistency Over Perfection

What sets experienced professionals apart isn’t the absence of mistakes but their consistency. They show up, put in the work, and refine their approach over time. Consistency builds confidence, and confidence fuels growth.

Being Intentional: Mastery Is No Accident

While repetition builds confidence, intention refines it. An experienced cook doesn’t just season randomly; they’ve honed their craft over time. Similarly, in your career, intentionality is the secret ingredient. Set goals, reflect on your progress, and actively seek growth opportunities.

How to Apply This to Your Career

1. Start Where You Are: You don’t need to be perfect to begin. Start small, start messy — just start.
2. Practice Daily: Build habits that allow you to engage with your craft regularly.
3. Learn From Feedback: Whether it’s a “too salty” review from your manager or constructive criticism from a peer, treat feedback as a growth opportunity.
4. Celebrate Small Wins: Every dish that’s perfectly seasoned is a milestone. Every small achievement in your career is worth acknowledging.
5. Stay Curious: Even seasoned chefs try new recipes. Never stop learning.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a budding software developer, a young entrepreneur, or a professional climbing the career ladder, remember this: confidence is built through consistent practice and intentional effort. Be like an African mom seasoning her stew — with practice, you’ll instinctively know how to create something exceptional.