Crash Course in Learning Theory
One of my all-time favorite blogs Creating Passionate Users has a fantastic post on a Crash Course in Learning Theory.
Our coaches might recognize the whole-brain learning principles, like engaging all senses, speaking to both the left and right parts of the brain by using written as well as visual aids, technical as well as emotive material. We use some of the strategies in effective communication too, like telling stories, using common langauge, evoking participation, providing the ‘what’s in it for me’ upfront.
After I learnt about whole-brain learning, I realized why I remember things from movies so well while I sucked so bad at remembering other things, like my chemistry textbook and telephone numbers. I find myself better able to remember lines, characters and theme songs even better than people’s names! Movies are great learning experiences because they engulf you visually, aurally, tell compelling stories and evoke your emotions. Not to mention the whole thing is fun, and people are often in good states while watching a movie
I agree that a key to self management is self esteem. I would offer that true life inspiration happens when you find something you love to do and make it a part of your everyday experience. Here’s an exercise:
1. Write down 10 things you love to do or that bring you the most joy. I call this the “You List”
2. Then record how many times a day you do one of the things on your list
3. Give each day of the week a rating from 1-10
4. Your best day usually comes out to be the day you do the most things on your “You List”
I can easily relate to the first part of the story, in the past I was one of those people pretending you have done something and then be very uncomfortable when someone asks more detailed questions.
It is not a good feeling and being upfront from the beginning really saves you the embarassment later.