Why learning is challenging and not always fun

Have you ever found learning to be challenging and not always enjoyable?

Understanding what might hold you back from personal growth and change could be helpful in making your learning journey more successful and enjoyable. Leading research from Schein, Dweck, Ibarra, Kegan & Lahey on this topic reveals some of the hidden forces hindering our learning journeys.

1. Survival Anxiety vs. Learning Anxiety

You cannot talk people out of their learning anxieties; they're the basis for resistance to change

Edgar Schein delves into the two anxieties linked with learning. Learning Anxiety is the fear of trying something new, potential difficulty, and the threat to self-esteem and identity. Survival Anxiety is the realization that change is essential for survival, pushing individuals beyond initial resistance. Both anxieties work in tandem, with learning anxiety setting the stage and survival anxiety acting as the tipping point for embracing change. Discover more at https://hbr.org/2002/03/the-anxiety-of-learning

2. Fixed vs. Growth Mindset

Carol Dweck argues that people with a “growth mindset” believe they can become smarter, more productive, and more talented. They believe that their most basic abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work – brains and talent are just the starting point. This view creates a love of learning and resilience essential for great accomplishment. In a fixed mindset, people believe their basic qualities, like their intelligence or talent, are simply fixed traits. They spend their time documenting their intelligence or talent instead of developing it. Discover more at https://hbr.org/2016/01/what-having-a-growth-mindset-actually-means

People with a growth mindset understand that effort and perseverance make them stronger, which helps them achieve more

3. The hidden competing commitment

Competing commitments, as described by Kegan & Lahey, refer to conflicting beliefs, values, or commitments that individuals may hold simultaneously. In the context of learning, competing commitments can be obstacles to personal and professional growth. Kegan's theory suggests that people often face challenges in changing their behaviors or beliefs because they are unconsciously committed to conflicting values or assumptions. Discover more at https://hbr.org/2001/11/the-real-reason-people-wont-change

4. The Authenticity Paradox

Herminia Ibarra raises the issue that people can be too authentic. That is, they stick to a rigid image of the self, preventing them from experimenting and trying new approaches. Discover more at https://hbr.org/2015/01/the-authenticity-paradox

An image of self that is too rigid prevents us from experimenting and trying new approaches

Conclusion

In essence, recognizing and addressing these hidden forces is the key to unlocking one's full potential. By embracing change, cultivating a growth mindset, and navigating competing commitments, individuals can embark on a transformative learning journey. As you face challenges and embrace opportunities for growth, remember that understanding the dynamics at play will pave the way for a more successful and enjoyable learning experience.