Resting Skills: The Power of Practice and Application in Retaining Skills

As a young adult, I was an expert driver in India. I knew the roads, the routes, and the rules. However, when I moved to the United States and had to get a new license to drive in California, I was very nervous about it.

I had cleared my written exam and arrived at my local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for my scheduled behind-the-wheel driving test, the atmosphere was tense and scary. I felt my heart rate increase and my palms sweat as I sat in the driver's seat with my evaluator beside me. As we left the parking lot, my nervousness took over, and I drove on the left side of the road (in America you are supposed to drive on the right side), causing a critical error arrrghhhh!!! My evaluator was visibly upset with the blunder I made and immediately ordered me to get back to the parking lot. I drove for exactly 1.5 minutes and failed the big test I was preparing for weeks. I was devastated, to say the least.

For a long time, I was angry at myself for not being able to recall the most basic information I needed to know to drive here. Don't worry, this story has a happy ending. A month after this incident I cleared my behind-the-wheel by intentional unlearning, and practice. As I reflect on that experience, I realize the importance of practicing and retaining skills. We cannot solely rely on knowledge to drive us through difficult situations, especially when we are under stress or pressure.

As professionals, it is crucial to not only build skills but also retain them for effective application when needed. Retaining skills involves frequent practice, review, and reinforcement of what has been learned. The process of retaining skills can be enhanced by using simulations, test case studies, and other strategies that allow us to apply the skills we have learned in real-world scenarios.

One way to enhance skill retention is through the use of simulations. By creating realistic scenarios that allow employees to apply their skills in a safe and controlled environment, we can help them build muscle memory and recall those skills when they are needed most. Simulations can be used in a wide range of fields, from aviation to healthcare, to train and test employees' abilities to apply their skills effectively.

Another way to enhance skill retention is through the use of case studies. These case studies can be based on real-world scenarios, allowing employees to apply their skills in situations that are relevant to their work. This approach can help employees learn from their experiences, and they can use those lessons to improve their skills for future situations.

In conclusion, retaining skills is essential for effective application in any profession. We must prioritize practice, review, and reinforcement of learned skills, as well as provide opportunities for employees to apply their skills in different contexts. Simulations and test case studies can be effective strategies for retaining skills and providing opportunities for application. By enhancing our resting skills, we can prepare ourselves to succeed in high-pressure situations and achieve our goals.