To learn from failure, you first must learn three things about the experience: 1) What exactly did I do that led to failure? 2) What specific skills must I do differently to prevent what led to failure? 3) How can I turn what I must do differently into a memorable mental model?
Psychologist Albert Bandura in his preeminent book Self-Efficacy elaborates on these three steps with more technical detail. He calls this the “cognitive phase of skill development”:
Repeated opportunities to observe the molded activities enable observers to discover the essential features of the skill, organize and verify what they know, and give special attention to missing aspects. [Athletes] will not learn or remember much from exposure to models unless they transform the essential features of the modeled skill into easily remembered symbolic codes in the medium of imagery or words. Observers who convert a modeled activity into codes that symbolize it form a more accurate cognitive representation than they would if they just passively observed the demonstrations.
How to Make the Cognitive Phase of Skill Development Practical
I know this concept from Bandura appears complex and first read, but it’s not as complex as you think. It’s quite simple. Learning is easier when you give what you’re trying to learn a memorable name. Moreover, when that name creates a mental model that matches with the exact skill, competency, or capability you’re learning, it’s even easier.
Here’s a simple example using a fictional baseball player, Jake. Jake was a highly touted baseball prospect known for his power hitting. However, during his freshman year in college, Jake found himself in a slump. He was swinging at bad pitches and struggling to make contact, which was eroding his confidence at the plate.
Applying the Three Steps of the Cognitive Phase of Skill Development
- Identifying the Cause of Failure: Jake’s first step out of the slump was to identify the root cause of his failure. Video analysis and coaching feedback pointed to two main issues: a lack of patience at the plate, leading him to swing at poor pitches, and a mechanical flaw in his swing that reduced his contact rate.
- Defining What to Do Differently: Armed with this insight, Jake worked with his hitting coach to address physical aspects of his game and a mental skills coach to work on the mental side. Physically, he adjusted his stance and swing to improve his ability to make contact. Mentally, he worked on his approach to at-bats, focusing on his self-talk and not talking himself into rushing.
- Creating a Memorable Mental Model: To encapsulate his new approach, Jake coined the term “Selective Sting.” This concept served as a constant reminder of his dual goals. A) Being selective at the plate to wait for the right pitch. B) Striking effectively when the opportunity presented itself. Undoubtedly, the “Selective Sting” philosophy was a mental model that merged his physical adjustments with a disciplined mental approach.
Why This Process Works
This process works for several reasons that align with Bandura’s research on self-efficacy and the cognitive phase of skill development:
- Observational Learning: By analyzing video of successful hitters and receiving targeted coaching, Jake could model his practice on effective strategies, embodying Bandura’s emphasis on learning from observation.
- Mastery Experiences: Jake’s focused practice sessions, where he applied the “Selective Sting” model, led to small successes that rebuilt his confidence. According to Bandura, such mastery experiences are crucial for developing self-efficacy.
- Verbal Persuasion: Jake’s coaches supported his new approach with positive feedback, reinforcing his belief in his ability to change. Bandura identifies verbal persuasion as a key factor in enhancing self-efficacy.
- Emotional and Physiological States: Jake’s mental model helped improve his emotional response to batting, reducing anxiety and allowing him to focus more effectively. Bandura notes that positive emotional states enhance self-efficacy.
By applying these principles, Jake transformed his approach to hitting. The “Selective Sting” mental model didn’t just represent a technical adjustment; it symbolized a comprehensive strategy that integrated Jake’s physical skills with a disciplined, confident mindset. This approach is directly addressing the cognitive phase of skill development that Bandura describes.
Learning from Failure is an Intentional Process
Embracing failure as a steppingstone to greatness requires intentionality, resilience, and courage. Whether it’s Jake’s journey with the “Selective Sting” approach, or any personal challenge we face, overcoming setbacks requires deliberate action. Furthermore, setbacks are transformed into comebacks through self-awareness, practice, and the belief in our ability to change.
In short, how we deal with failure shapes not just our skills, but our character and destiny. By adopting a mindful approach to failure, seeing it as a first step towards growth, we open ourselves to truly learn from failure and not just giving it lip service. In doing that, every failure brings us one step closer to mastery.