The Decision to Learn

Learning is a funny thing…

When we are young, learning is organic. Our brains are designed to soak up our experiences and observations. As we age, learning is more difficult. It's why learning a new language is easier when we are kids.

Beyond the neurological shifts we experience later in life, we also contend with mindset shifts and habit routines. Ever heard the phrase "stuck in your ways"? How about "creature of habit"?

Up to 43%* of what we do is habit. That leaves 57% for executive function. However, that is occupied with things like emotional regulation, working memory, organization, and so on. Maybe you get 10% towards that 'learning Italian' goal.

We each must deliberately choose to learn as adults. Whether it is a new business process, technology, or, Italian, we are competing with a litany of inputs. It doesn't just…happen.

And this is where companies struggle. One hour of learning on that new ERP system. 30 minutes on inclusion. 15 minutes on leadership. No Italian.

When designing learning programs, remember that employees need first to decide that it's worthwhile.

Otherwise, it's just an extra 30 minutes to dedicate the remainder of our 57% on email…

* Wendy Wood, Good Habits Bad Habits