Learning - How it Works & How to Do it Better ft. Seth Godin

Summary

This video debunks misconceptions about learning and explains how true skill development works. It emphasizes that skills are not innate but built through repeated practice, forming stronger brain circuits. The video also discusses the concept of 'deep practice' and how the brain's myelin production enhances learning. It addresses how the fear-driven 'lizard brain' can hinder progress and advocates for embracing discomfort to improve. The key takeaway is that anyone can improve at any skill with the right mindset and practice, illustrated by insights from experts like Seth Godin.

Takeaways

• 😀 Learning is one of the most important skills, yet many misconceptions surround it.
• 🚴‍♂️ Skills like riding a bike, dancing, or public speaking are learned through brain circuits, not natural gifts.
• 🧠 Milin (myelin) in the brain strengthens circuits, improving skills with repeated practice.
• 🎯 There are no 'innate' talents like a dancing or math gene; skills are developed through repeated effort.
• 🏗 Aristotle taught that people become skilled by doing — practice builds ability.
• 🔄 Growth mindset is crucial for learning; believing you can learn is the first step.
• 😓 The 'lizard brain' or amygdala, a remnant from our evolutionary past, often triggers fear and avoidance of new challenges.
• 🐉 Trying to fight the lizard brain increases its power; instead, recognize its signals and push through fear.
• 👶 Babies and high achievers ('butt kickers') excel at learning because they embrace the unknown and practice consistently.
• 💪 Embracing discomfort and failure as part of the learning process is essential to mastering any skill.

Q & A

What is the main misconception about learning that the video aims to dispel?

The video dispels the misconception that people are born with certain skills or talents, like a 'dancing gene' or 'math gene.' Instead, learning skills is about forming connections in the brain through practice and effort.

How does the brain physically change when learning new skills?

The brain forms new circuits that are wrapped in a substance called myelin. The more you practice a skill, the more myelin is produced around those circuits, allowing you to perform the skill faster, better, and more accurately.

What role does the concept of 'deep practice' or 'deliberate practice' play in learning?

Deep practice or deliberate practice involves engaging fully, pushing yourself outside your comfort zone, making mistakes, and repeating the process. This type of practice is essential for building and reinforcing the neural circuits responsible for a skill.

Why does the speaker mention Aristotle in the context of learning?

Aristotle is referenced to emphasize that learning by doing is a fundamental principle. He said, 'Whatever we learn to do, we learn by actually doing it,' meaning practice is key to mastering any skill.

What is the 'lizard brain,' and how does it affect learning?

The 'lizard brain' refers to the amygdala, a part of the brain that triggers fear and caution, causing people to avoid risk and discomfort. It hinders learning by encouraging people to stay in their comfort zones, resist challenges, and avoid mistakes.

What does Seth Godin mean when he says he fails 'with relish'?

Seth Godin embraces failure as part of the learning process. He sees failure as an opportunity to learn and grow, understanding that the discomfort of not knowing or making mistakes is a necessary part of mastering new skills.

Why does the speaker say it is impossible to defeat the 'lizard brain'?

The speaker explains that fighting the 'lizard brain' only strengthens its influence. Instead, it’s more effective to 'dance' with it—acknowledge the fear it creates and use it as a signal that you're on the verge of something important, then act despite the fear.

How do 'butt kickers' succeed at learning, according to the video?

'Butt kickers' are people who excel because they understand how learning works. They embrace discomfort, push themselves outside their comfort zones, and persist through failures, using deep practice to continually improve.

What is the importance of having a 'growth mindset' in learning?

A growth mindset is the belief that you can improve and learn new things through effort and practice. This mindset is crucial for learning because it encourages persistence, openness to challenges, and the willingness to make mistakes.

What evolutionary explanation does the speaker provide for why our brains are wired to learn?

The speaker explains that in prehistoric times, learning skills that helped with survival (like hunting or building) was essential. The brain adapted by becoming efficient at learning and improving at tasks that were repeated often and required effort.