As I was writing something else, the idea for this post came to mind. So, what’s this post about? A Novel approach to learning?
How many times have you picked up a book on Self Improvement or other Personal Change and then read it like a novel. By that I mean, read it from cover to cover. Oh yes, there is the occasional pause to re-read a section, maybe try something out that captures your attention. But basically you ‘consume’ the book and the ideas it contains then move on.
How often do we push the pause button in a book, or CD/MP3, and go over and over the lesson to be learned until we have embedded it as a habit or behaviour. Made the change part of us?
Do you find something that resonates with you, try it a few times, then say to yourself – “yep got that!” then move on to the next idea or concept?
See, the trick for lasting change is to learn the process for embedding the new desired pattern in your brain. Yep, that’s right in your brain!
It’s like learning a new skill. We don’t practice a few times then say – “yep mastered that!” We know we have to work at it for a number of months or more to master it. Why is it then, when it comes to learning new behaviours or changing habits we try for a couple of days, maybe weeks even, then say – “that didn’t work – I’ll find something else”.
So the next time you read an article or book on Personal Change, pause and really engage in the exercises. Engage the brain and build strong neural circuits that continue to grow and strengthen as you use the new habit.
until next time
metta
Garth
