Speed is not the goal, failure is...

Weird title, no?

Let me explain simply: There is no teacher, lesson, course, or experience that educates us as humans, especially we mechanics; better than failure.

One step further: "Slow is smooth, smooth is fast" a phrase instituted by the Navy Seals.

This phrase, a pillar of their education, teaches those willing to learn it well, that utilizing new skills or pushing boundaries requires a step-by-step, methodical process.

Starting to sound familiar, eh Wrench?

When we as young mechanics jump into the trade, we are coaxed by the lure of fast cars making eargasmic noises. The potential income draws us even closer by the example of a fast and productive flat rate technician wage in excess of $100,000 a year with no University Education.

What they don't tell you is that you have to fail, a lot, to get there, not go faster. ???

You're saying in your head, "going faster, fixing faster, doing more" means you make more money, not failure...?

To that point I say, how do you know when you or can't go faster, or do more?

Bingo, failure.

I have failed more times than I can count, and it's made me more successful each time.

You see, failure is like a cheat code if you know how, and when to utilize it.

A few examples to try, if you're willing to fail:

1. Veteran Technician: "I'm bored" ... try something you've never done. I'd be willing to bet that you do the same 20-30 repairs every 90 days if you're at a dealer. Ask for a repair that you've never done, or ask for some "less than fortunate" vehicles from the auction that could have serious gross, if you figure out why they are on the block.
2. Apprentice: "I'm not learning" ... ask the foreman for a diagnostic challenge, to do after hours. Learn each diagnostic tree step, perform it, and write it down in your words. In the morning, you can discuss your findings.
3. Express Lane: "I can't make more money" ...spend time reviewing each step, and I mean that literally, every footstep in that lane matters. Formula 1 drivers can mimic a lap, with their eyes closed. Each turn, each down/upshift. Each brake bias change, diff setting, braking point, and DRS zone.

In each case, you will make mistakes and fail. But what you learn by pushing the boundaries, and failing, will provide more than just perspective.

So go forth and fail responsibly.

j.

I'm Joshua Taylor and at Wrench Turners Podcast we're developing Technicians into High-Value Leaders.

www.wrenchturners.online for more information about Wrench Turners Podcast

Wrench Turners Hoodies are available in Black now!

PS. Sorry, it's a day late. Wifey and I celebrated 12 years married yesterday ??

PSS. Don't put it down, put it away.

Disclaimer: I am not liable for what you do. Act responsibly. Be safe.