The Theory of 'Deliberate Practice' - Useful Lessons for Entrepreneurs

The definition of practice is to “perform (an activity) or exercise (a skill) repeatedly or regularly - in order to acquire, improve or maintain proficiency in it”. Whilst this sounds rather straightforward there seems to be some obvious differences in the execution and results when it is viewed from a practical perspective. K. Anders Ericsson a Swedish Psychologist having completed rigorous research of identifying how people become exceptional at what they do and how they have become so... suggested that there are 3 types of practices i.e. NAIVE, PURPOSEFUL & DELIBERATE that makes people perform the way they do. In essence the key is to be BETTER –and hence the importance of identifying which type of practice will give you rapid and continuous improvement. His theory has been widely used in multiple contexts (including sports) and the author of this article is of the view that it is an useful theory for entrepreneurs as well. Let's explore this notion..... 

For the purpose of this article we will only focus on only one type of Ericsson's theory i.e.  'DELIBERATE PRACTICE'. This is a special type of practice that is 'purposeful' and 'systematic'- While regular practice might include mindless repetitions, 'DELIBERATE PRACTICE' requires focused attention and is conducted with the specific goal of improving performance. It differs from 'PURPOSEFUL PRACTICE' only due to two factors i.e. it is in a Well-Developed Field (recognized experts) & needs a Teacher/Coach

Various literature on the subject matter outline some key aspects that are required for 'DELIBERATE PRACTICE' to happen. They are broadly as follows 

1. Define the Goal

2. Go for the goal (execute)

3. Evaluate the Result

4. Identify the Problem

5. Identify the Cause

6. Identify the Solution 

7. Test Possible Solutions

The author of this article is of the view that entrepreneurs can learn some important lessons from this 'Theory of DELIBERATE PRACTICE' when running their companies. Every entrepreneur is interested in performance and growth. They need to identify ways on how the strategy, processors and execution of the company can be practiced in a matter that optimizes and improves performance. Entrepreneurs often find innovative solutions for problems and that's what keeps them going. However, entrepreneurs are also not subject experts (neither are they expected to be) in every field. Hence, just like in the 'Theory of DELIBERATE PRACTICE' entrepreneurs need to be open for advise and feedback from experts and mentors. It can be argued that most entrepreneurs have a role model or someone who inspires them. There is also a school of thought that every entrepreneur should have a mentor who can guide them in the right pathway. The author of this article is also in agreement with this notion.

Since we now know the importance (and lessons) that entrepreneurs can learn from the 'Theory of DELIBERATE PRACTICE' .....let's now look at how they can action the same in their day to day work environment. Based on the work of previous research (and thought leaders/authors) illustrated below are some key points that entrepreneurs can keep in mind if they want to put 'DELIBERATE PRACTICE' into action from a practical perspective.

1. Get motivated

2. Set specific, realistic goals

3. Use pre-existing knowledge

4. Break out of your comfort zone

5. Be consistent and persistent

6. Seek feedback

7. Take time to recover

8. Repeat best practices

The starting point for any entrepreneurial success story is 'motivation' and 'passion'. The willingness to accept failure and be motivated to learn fast from such experiences is paramount for success. Being persistent is a prerequisite in any entrepreneur's job role irrespective of the industry or territory. Entrepreneurs need to be constantly different and break away from traditional boundaries and comfort zones. Unlike a regular job an entrepreneur does not have the luxury of a fixed salary at the end of the month. They are on a constant 'hustle' mode to compete, survive and make money. This means that comfort zones cannot exist in the pursuit of success. Having said that in order to operationalize their objectives and ensure performance/growth there is a need to set specific goals and KPI's. These need to be measured regularly and corrective action taken as soon as possible.

Feedback from all stakeholders is critical for any entrepreneur. This will help entrepreneurs to improve their product, service, strategy, process etc. The focus should always be on the customers and not the product or technology. This is where feedback from stakeholders including mentors and experts will be immensely helpful. Just like 'DELIBERATE PRACTICE' when it comes to sports, entrepreneurs also need time to recover, rejuvenate and bounce back with renewed vigor especially when things do not go necessarily as planned. There is a need to take a step back, reflect and come up with new ideas to navigate the rough seas better and effectively. Finally it goes without saying that entrepreneurs should always continue and repeat the best practices. Of course, improving and being better should be the aim but at least repeating the things that work well on a consistent basis should be the least that an entrepreneur should settle for and nothing less! 

So if your just like any rational entrepreneur who is focused on performance and growth of your business.....the principals in the theory of 'DELIBERATE PRACTICE' might be indeed helpful as exemplified above. The author of this article is a strong supporter of K. Anders Ericsson and his research. This article therefore, is a honest and humble effort to use the great work done by this magnificent researcher and help fellow entrepreneurs understand its usefulness to their day to day business.