Learn how to use the simple concepts of physics to make your techniques land harder and faster. Read Martina Sprague's article on The Speed and Power of Spinning Techniques in Inside Kung-Fu, July 2001 issue, page 74.
Experience is the greatest teacher.
The problem with today's martial arts books is that they guide you through the steps without giving any real depth or insight. This is called learning by rote. Simply put, it is memorization without understanding. Many people are misled to believe that they can learn martial arts this way. We recommend that you involve yourself with a competent instructor, and let him guide you through your learning process.