It’s well known that deliberate practice makes perfect. But what makes practice deliberate vs just routine? I’ve noticed repeatedly that “performing” what we have learnt in the form of a test or a presentation helps to bridge the gap from 90% -> 100%, seal in the learning and unlock a new baseline.
Recently, I participated in the StanChart race with a goal to run 5k. I was only doing ~3k max prior to that and while I knew I could easily walk the 5k, I wasn’t sure if I could run it non-stop without any breaks. During the race, a mix of adrenaline + determination that I should not walk helped me breeze past the finish line without needing to stop. This was somewhat expected, as it had been my experience in previous races as well. What was interesting though, was that after the race, I saw that my baseline level of competence in running had just leveled up. Suddenly, 3ks were very easy. I think this happened because I had mentally unlocked a new level with the race day performance.
I’ve noticed the same trend happen at work too, and obviously applies with learning something academic – that’s the reason tests and exams exist. My dance teacher used to insist on stage performances for all her students as a part of the yearly curriculum for this exact reason.
So, the next time you feel like you’ve plateaued in learning something new, consider how you can “perform” your skill to an audience. Making yourself uncomfortable and doing the work to close the last 10% gap might just be the missing step that can unlock the next level.
Shweta Padmanaban 