I’ve been learning a new skill this week: printmaking. It’s an art in which it probably takes decades to attain any degree of mastery. I’ve been looking around in our class of twelve and trying to figure out what it is that makes the students who are particularly good at this art stand-out. And what makes our tutor masterful.
I made up this list of qualities which I think also apply to being “good” at yoga and yoga teaching:

1. Being willing to make mistakes, or not get it perfect from the outset. (I reckon I made at least ten mistakes a day in my class, and really messy ones at times, which you can do when using heavy-duty inks.)
2. Being coachable. Taking advice graciously, even when it’s not the first, second, or third time you’ve needed to hear it.
3. Being willing to ask “dumb” questions, even when you think you’re the only one in the group who doesn’t know the answer.
4. Being dogged. I noticed in my group that the best performers were the ones who came in early and stayed late because they were so interested in learning.
5. Seeing yourself as capable at the art, even though you may not have much evidence that you are. Or, even when you have evidence to the contrary.

Maybe the most useful technique for becoming accomplished at something or achieving a desired outcome is the Stephen Covey suggestion: begin with the end in mind.
What does that mean? Having long enough vision that you can hold in your mind’s eye the image of where you want to be as you take the tiny incremental steps along the way to get there.
Many who participate in yoga teacher trainings do so because they love yoga but they don’t really think they have what it takes to become a teacher. Having a clear vision of where you want to be in five years, ten years, and beyond, positions you for attaining your goal. You will look for opportunities that align with your vision and you’ll be a “yes” for them.
My printmaking tutor, Serephina, is adroit at her art, no doubt she is a master. But the characteristic that I most admire about her, and can add to the above list is the fact that she is non-judgmental, encouraging and consummately calm. Really a lovely yogini.