My 2024 skill-stack is essential to making more money

I recently came across Pat Flynn’s book, How to Get Better at Almost Everything, that makes the argument for being a generalist in a specialized world.

He continues to make the case for learning and combining a jumble of specific skills---just in time--- directed toward achieving specific goals, rather than being an expert at one thing or having specialized knowledge in one area. 

For example, Flynn encourages readers to follow their interests by utilizing the 80/20 rule of focusing on the skills that bring about the most return on investment (ROI).

I like how he uses the gym analogy, such as, when learning a new skill, like muscle building, we need to isolate what we’re learning, put in the repetition, add weight (resistance), and then practice in real-life environments as much as possible. 

For example, if you want to get better at running marathons or winning Tae Kwon Do tournaments (a form of martial arts), then you need to focus on the techniques that provide the most results. 

Moreover, you need to expose yourself in tournament-like conditions by consistently joining and participating in as many marathons and Tae Kwon Do competitions as possible.  

Flynn’s modern-day Renaissance man philosophy really resonated with me enough to create my own 2024 skill-stack list.

1. Automotive repairs: Okay, to be honest I don’t really have a choice here. Upon returning to the US last March 2023 from living in Asia for the last six years, I had to pretty much start life over and was only able to score a neighbor’s 2001 Toyota Camry for $1,900.

Thus far, I have not only been able to learn and do basic maintenance, including changing out the oil, oil filter, transmission, and transmission filter, but I have moved on to more complicated and more difficult jobs such as replacing the engine valve cover gasket, fuel filter and fuel pump, spark plus, ignition coils, radiator and doing a complete exhaust system and muffler overhaul.

What worked for me has been watching hundreds of Youtube videos and purchasing entry-level ratchet and socket tools at my neighborhood Harbor Freight Tools store---my most used hand tools I use 80% of the time have been my 3 ⁄ 8 ratchet and 10 millimeter socket. 

When I need a solution to a specific problem, I search Youtube where I can watch short, and simple tutorials that give me the know-how and confidence to tackle the job. 

The one positive aspect that has come out of this endeavor is that I have overcome the initial learning curve to where I enjoy performing auto repairs. 

I actually find solace in the hours I put in servicing my cars on the weekend.  

2. Content creation-How to become a better writer: For 2024 I am adamant about becoming a more serious content creator who isn’t shy about sharing his work on social media, including LinkedIn and Youtube.

I have been learning how to build an audience from influencers such as Dan Koe and Dorie Clark, mostly by following their content, purchasing their books, and listening to their podcasts.

These two have convinced me that I have something of value to offer the world, and the world needs to hear about it. 

Now, I just need to learn the best strategies and methods to be most effective in getting my thoughts out there.

3. Creating online courses: One of my goals is to create passive income through courses, teaching others valuable skills on overcoming specific problems.

The 21st century has seen a shift in traditional classroom learning to learning from courses online. And I want to be a part of this. 

To do this, I have to create valuable content to build an audience first and then to learn how to market and to sell these courses to a growing following.

And that leads me to the next crucial step.

4. Sales and marketing: These are the two important drivers I will need in order to “close” on my offer to reach my goals and vision.

Copywriting, creating landing pages, understanding the buyer's journey, creating sales funnels and content creation all fall under this essential step. 

I need to understand the buyers' pain-points enough to create the solutions to these problems.

I have been eyeing Dan Koe’s Digital Renaissance course, which could help me in this endeavor.

So there you have it. That’s what I’m up to in 2024.

I hope by sharing my skill-stacking plans you will be motivated to focus on learning something valuable you can put to use soon, too.