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Taking Action
Action is the most important step of the learning process, and it’s often the most difficult.
To change a habit or build a skill we have to do the work (and sustain it over time). The hard part is that there are a lot of things that can get in the way of this.
Today we focus on two frameworks that can help fuel our action. This episode is an answer to the most common question I get during workshops: “What do I do when my students/employees/players just don’t care or see the purpose of the work?”
Key Points
4 Things That Get in the Way of Action
1. Fixed Mindset: I don’t think I can do this
2. Fear: I’m afraid to look bad
3. Aiming too Big: There’s too big of a gap between where I’m at and where I want to go
4. No Meaning: I don’t see the purpose of this
We’ve spent the last couple of years tackling the first two – today we focus on #3 and #4
Meaning
Before we take action we need to understand the purpose or value behind the project or assignment. The meaning doesn’t have to be life-changing – it just needs to be real and relevant.
Leaders Can Share Meaning
If we want to fuel the action of others we can find ways to share the meaning or purpose behind the project or assignment. Again, it doesn’t have to be a huge, life-changing purpose, but it should be real and relevant to the person we’re working with.
Working Backwards Can Create Meaning
When we start with the engine and work backwards, every lesson and tool becomes more relevant. I see the purpose of the screwdriver now, because I know it can help me take the engine a part.
Aim Low
If our target is too high we might not start and we’re likely to burn out early. When we start small we create momentum, build new habits, and create a lasting change.
Question Topics:
Tools to build a learning culture
Our most valuable failures
Quick Links
Creativity Inc by Ed Catmull
The Culture Code by Dan Coyle
WorkLife Podcast by Adam Grant
