What “Holes” Us Back?
“Thinking is the hardest work there is, which is probably the reason why so few engage in it.”
--- Henry Ford
“A problem cannot be solved on the same level it was created.”
“A problem cannot be solved on the same level it was created.”
--- Albert Einstein
Yesterday, I wrote about the need to prepare for entry into small business. In lieu of that dedication, many people turn to MLM as a quick fix for their financial problems. Unfortunately, anything that purports to be easy is all hype and will take what little of your savings you have left. By avoiding the “hard part”, you have a plan that is shaped like a donut. The core or foundation is missing. Donut Hole Thinking
The problem with thinking is our conceptual framework. There are certain facts, general knowledge, attitudes and behaviors that we have acquired over the years that allow us to function. The old saying about not being able to teach old dogs new tricks is from this idea of conceptual framework. You can learn new things, actually it is a necessity in today’s marketplace, but it usually takes a significant emotional event to alter your views. For some that event is the loss of a job or a new job that we are not prepared to do.
When we are faced with a new learning situation, our brains attempt to organize the information or skills into patterns that are already in place across our brain’s landscape. This need to create patterns is from the DNA of “fight or flight.” When faced with danger, we don’t have time to analyze; we need to get out or defend ourselves. Driving a car is possible because we have patterns in place to make turns or know when to slow down.
This mechanism of patterns is what makes learning new things more difficult than it should be. To add new knowledge or skills, we must first recognize what we already know; second, what we are supposed to learn; and third, how to use this new knowledge with our existing patterns. Hence, some companies invest in learning simulators to help people integrate new learning and use it often enough to allow it to mesh with pre-existing leaning. Schools are failing because they don’t allow sufficient time to integrate new learning by using simulators and repeating the lessons until they are “second-nature.” Imagine a sports team employing the “hear one, see one, do one” strategy!
For people entering the world of small business, old patterns for business won’t work. The virtual world has changed how people conduct business. If you are not familiar with Google Adsense, podcasting or blogging, you may miss your target audiences. Then there’s advertising, copywriting and networking across a new virtual medium that can swallow marketing budgets whole. Finally, once you have spent time learning the basics, a new marketing model is developed by a “whiz kid” from India and the process starts again.
The best way to stay current is to avoid donut hole thinking. You build a solid foundation of learning and skills that provides you with the ability to make transitions. Reading and comprehension is the central part of that foundation. And, be prepared to accept that reading concepts becomes a daily event and in 6 months or less, those concepts are replaced by new thinking.
Ford said it best that thinking is hard work. If you don’t plan to dedicate your time to this hard work, don’t expect terrific results. Professional athletes in every sport will practice year-round to stay sharp and ahead of the competition.
If you don’t see yourself in this kind of role, find an employer who will take care of those needs for you. This is not something to be embarrassed about; not everyone can be an entrepreneur or own their business. Just recognize that before you spend money on a dream that becomes a nightmare.
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