The Way of Craftsmanship (with audio)

The Way of Craftsmanship is a way of thinking, a way of doing, and a way of living.

• As a way of thinking, it is an attitude of mind which continually strives for incremental improvement.
• As a way of doing, it considers the process or the manner in which something is done.
• As a way of living, it is applicable to everything we do to achieve quality results in our personal, family, and professional lives.

What Is A Craftsperson?

No matter what trade, occupation or profession, a craftsperson is one who is concerned with balance in design and function, and excellence of execution (i.e.) a high quality result from work done well. Endurance in both design and function measures the skill of today’s craftsperson as it has in the past.

The “complete” craftsperson is one who is equally skilled in all the elements of their craft. Most are usually advanced in their years, their skill and knowledge firmly rooted in long and broad experience.

Life-as-a-Craft is the practice of applying craftsmanship to the physical, mental, and spiritual experiences which constitute yours and every other human being’s existence.

It is the art & science of skillful living acquired through study, observation, and practice. It is a structured, systematic approach to managing your personal and professional life, and the life of your family.

It places intuition and creativity inside a framework where it can grow, develop and endure.

Practicing Craftsmanship

To practice craftsmanship in your life and your actions, consider the meaning of ‘craftsperson’ and ‘craftsmanship’. Open yourself to experience the works of superior craftsmanship in every medium and profession.

All the books in the world cannot duplicate the experience of direct contact with the fruits of superior craftsmanship; the works themselves.

Alone, and with friends and family, look at, touch, smell, taste, and listen to the works of superior craftsmanship which surround us. Experience them and talk about them together.

Describe what you see and feel the deeper you look at a beautifully crafted automobile, an outstanding motion picture, an intricate piece of jewelry, an inspired performance, or the ultimate masterpiece; a superbly crafted life lived to its fullest and an inspiration to future generations of practitioners.

The principle of this exercise is to become well acquainted with the difference between true craftsmanship and imitation “fake” craftsmanship or worse; mediocre, indifferent workmanship. Know what craftsmanship is, and what it isn’t.

Craftsmanship is attained through action, and shared through the tangible evidence of one’s work. The work must speak for itself.  Seek out great works of craftsmanship and study them to discover the lessons contained in the results of their work. Then practice the lesson.