Anatomy of Learning - Part III

In the earlier blogs, we looked at the principle of observation and reflection. This brings us to the Part III, which deals with introspection and aspects of introspection that aids problem solving.

The Principle of Introspection

 
We commenced our journey with a series of observations. Based on the data we gathered through the process of observations, we reflected and arrived at a representation of the acquired knowledge that aided problem solving. Once, we arrive at the representation, we need to focus our energies on Introspecting on the value proposition in the solution space. Is this important enough for me to go and nail it to finish? Is this something that I deeply care about? This step is critical because of a few good reasons. This requires us to have understanding of a related concept of motivation and volition. A person is motivated to do something because he sees the reward for doing it. The carrot becomes as much the ‘energy center’ in this paradigm as the impact of the solution. Volition is a state where the energy center is within us. Our core beliefs and sense of purpose drives us. Great leaders have led revolutions from the front without looking for a carrot. They are driven by their inner being or by a call within. Willpower is the overwhelming action based force field that can drive a person with a sense of deep allegiance to a goal state of problem category.

Let us consider an example. While dealing with resources of varied capabilities, we come across people who, in our opinion' are not 'up to the job on hand'. A feedback session to communicate your assessment backed with all the observations made, data gathered will not lead us to the solution. In face of negative feedback, no matter how much data driven it is, people do tend to get into an enclosed space and withdraw themselves away from purposeful action. Introspection leads the supervisor to ask the fundamental question - What is the desired outcome of this session? How do I get to the desired state? How can I navigate from the current position to the goal state with my report on the drivers seat? These questions lead us to an alternate feedback script that can motivate the handicapped 'team mate' into purposeful action taking.
 

Issues in Introspection

A life skill we need, relates to the practice of balanced and purposeful introspection. Any imbalance typically leads to self-flagellation - "I am the cause of all bad things." syndrome, or in several cases to externalization of issues, and therefore holding the environment accountable for all problems. In either case, after several hours of analysis, we come to state of paralysis simply because of the imbalance in the analysis and lack of focus on purposeful analysis. The phrase "analysis paralysis" deals with folks attempting to gather all the data in the world with which a set of all possible conclusions can be made. Then problem solving process takes the shape of acrimonious debates and oftentimes, to a loss of positive energy. A few of the related questions that arise include -

    • Lack of Confidence – Will my voice be heard?
    • Lack of Self Esteem – Will I be accepted?
    • Lack of Accountability – Should I stand up for something?
    • Learned Helplessness – The belief that any effort is hopeless and that it will hit the wall
 

Conclusion

If "unbiased" was the desired prefix for Observation, then "Clarity" is the defining yardstick for quality of reflection. The third stage of the learning process deals with purposeful and balanced introspection - which retains the focus and positive energy - centered on the solutions space that can galvanize the course of actions.