This quote speaks to the concept of mastery through persistence, practice, and patience. It suggests that gaining expertise in any field or skill requires a significant amount of time, effort, and continuous doing. The ‘how many years’ is not specifically quantified, implying that the journey to mastery is not a quick or easy one. It might take a few years for some, and for others, it might take a lifetime. The essence is to keep doing, learning, and improving.

The ‘doing’ is a critical aspect of the quote, emphasizing that theoretical knowledge alone is not sufficient. It is through constant application, trial, and error that one truly learns what to do and how to do it. The quote also underscores the value of experiential learning, where knowledge is gained from experiences and actions.

In today’s fast-paced world, this idea is more relevant than ever. In the age of instant gratification, this quote serves as a reminder that true mastery or success cannot be rushed or achieved overnight. It encourages individuals to persist, to keep trying, and to learn from their experiences.

In personal development, this quote can be applied in various ways. For instance, someone trying to master a new skill, like playing a musical instrument, coding, or public speaking, should not be disheartened by initial failures or slow progress. Instead, they should understand that it takes years of continuous practice and learning to become proficient.

Moreover, this quote can also be applied to the concept of lifelong learning. In an ever-evolving world, the process of learning and adapting should never stop. The ‘doing’ should continue, fostering growth and development, regardless of how many years it takes.

In essence, the quote encourages patience, resilience, and a growth mindset. It is a call to embrace the journey of learning, with all its challenges and rewards, and to understand that the path to mastery is a marathon, not a sprint.