Image courtesy of CreateHer Stock: Stock Images For Women of Color

As a lifelong learner, I’m fascinated by the dynamic energy created when learning happens.

• When your brain processes new information, it needs to figure out what to do with it.
• You begin to see possibilities that didn’t exist before.
• The negative emotions and habits you established no longer hold you back.
• Through imitation and practice, confidence in your abilities grows. Now you’re ready to take on bigger challenges.

(Think baby taking her first steps.)

I promise this post isn’t a long, boring thesis on the brain. I’m not trained in brain science and I won’t make an attempt to go there. What I have to say is simple.

There’s a difference in learning about something versus learning how to do it.

If you’re in the business of developing others, like a coach, you should have a basic understanding of the difference. On the other hand, if you are a learner, a recipient of someone’s knowledge and expertise, you should understand it too.

Learning About Something

• Limited to a one-dimensional experience primarily focused on what you see and hear
• There’s no opportunity to apply what you’ve learned. 
• Tangible skills won’t be evident.
• Retaining any information may be iffy, especially if the objectives aren’t clear and the teaching isn’t sticky.

Learning To Do Something

• Expanded to a multi-dimensional experience focused on a variety of learning styles including physical, social, logical, and emotional  
• Opportunities to apply what you’ve learned is inherent in the teaching. When applied in real-world settings, what you learn sticks.
• When it involves concrete experiences with opportunities to practice, you should be able to demonstrate tangible skills.

Learning by doing expands the potential for real transformation to occur.

Coaches, think about the services you’re providing your clients. You’re teaching them what it takes to be successful. They hope to see results in some way. What are you helping your clients learn to do? Can you name any skills?

Clients, think about services you receive from a coach. Being inspired is a key step in your journey, but to continue to grow, you need to practice new skills and support as you apply them. What have you learned to do? Can you name any skills?

I wrote this post from a sincere desire to see you win and learning has a lot do with it. The learning process is powerful and shouldn’t be taken lightly. Before selling your services to someone or before buying someone’s services, make sure it involves learning to do something to activate its full benefit. 

Go back and reflect on these questions in your journal. For an intimate exchange with me about your learning process, email me at zoe@gonegirlgo or for a social exchange, post your reflections in the comment section below.