Kaufman's 20 hour rule
If you could master one skill instantly, which would you pick?
You might opt for learning other skills quickly. That would still require some effort to learn them. Learning to cook, speak a language or play guitar within weeks would have great payoffs.
Communication is a broad and useful skill in every social scenario. Every presentation, ask for a raise, difficult conversation and interaction with a pet would feel fluent.
Patience is notoriously difficult to master. A Mr. Rogers-esk presence could calm others and keep your stress manageable.
Malcolm Gladwell popularized the 10,000 hour rule. 10,000 hours translates to 3 hours per day for 9 years. It's likely worth the effort, albeit a daunting amount.
Joesph Kaufman defined the more digestible 20 hour rule. 20 hours of practice to become proficient at one thing, like learning to play one song on the guitar very well. 20 hours to become faster at learning skills or to become an above average presenter. 30 minutes for 40 days, or however you want to divide it. Challenging, but doable if you keep at it.
It'd be great if there were a genie to give us a skill instantly. Since there isn't, it’s possible to become better than average at that skill you thought of a moment ago. What's a skill you'd like to have 2 months from now?
