We learn best when we are struggling with something.
How do you keep stepping out to the edge so you are still struggling and learning?
Recently I was in a situation where I had no idea what I was doing. So for much of the engagement, I used my instincts and made many mistakes. I kept moving on.
It was extremely painful and confusing. I remember leaving feeling mentally exhausted but extremely exhilarated at the same time. I thought, "This is what learning feels like"
When I made most of the mistakes, I sensed it was probably wrong but did it anyway. I imagined looking at myself from above and watching this mistake in real time.
This was a critical point in the learning process for me. At 55 and more experienced, I find it increasingly harder to have patience with not knowing and the pain of learning.
It’s so much easier to stick to what I’ve had much more practice in — which is often the wrong approach for a new problem.
If you want to learn, you must recognise this moment, be kind to yourself, and do it anyway.
New challenges deserve this.