"The Importance of Repetition and Finding Your Passion"

"The Importance of Repetition and Finding Your Passion"

Repetition is often underestimated in the learning process, but it is actually the first principle of all learning. The act of encountering an idea and then returning to it repeatedly fuses it into our awareness, allowing for a deeper understanding. It is through this slow engagement with ideas that we gradually acquire knowledge and skills. If we truly care about the quality of our learning, it is crucial to consciously design repetitive engagement into our courses and daily teaching.

On the other hand, finding our passion is essential for personal and professional fulfillment. Steve Jobs famously said, "You've got to find what you love." He believed that our work should be an integral part of our lives and that the key to doing great work is to love what we do. Jobs emphasized the importance of not settling and continuously seeking what truly brings us joy and satisfaction. This sentiment resonates with the idea that if today were our last day, we should ask ourselves if we would want to do what we are about to do. If the answer is no for too many days in a row, it's a clear sign that something needs to change.

The connection between repetition and finding our passion lies in the concept of trust. Jobs mentioned that we have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in our future. Similarly, when we engage in repetitive learning, we trust that the process will lead us to a deeper understanding. Trusting our gut, destiny, or intuition plays a vital role in both scenarios. It is through this trust that we can uncover our true passions and allow for the transformative power of repetition to take place.

Incorporating repetitive engagement into our lives and pursuing our passions require actionable steps. Here are three pieces of advice to consider:

1. Embrace deliberate practice: Deliberate practice involves breaking down complex tasks into smaller, manageable components and repeating them consistently. By focusing on specific areas for improvement, we can gradually enhance our skills and knowledge. Whether it's learning a musical instrument, improving our writing, or mastering a new language, deliberate practice is key.

2. Explore diverse interests: Sometimes, finding our passion requires exploration and experimentation. Engage in various activities, take different courses, and expose yourself to new experiences. This openness allows us to discover what truly resonates with us and helps us connect the dots in our journey.

3. Foster a growth mindset: Embrace the idea that abilities and talents can be developed through dedication and effort. A growth mindset allows us to see setbacks as opportunities for learning and growth. By believing that we can improve and evolve, we become more resilient in pursuing our passions and embracing the repetitive nature of learning.

In conclusion, repetition and finding our passion are interconnected in the pursuit of meaningful learning and fulfillment. By consciously incorporating repetitive engagement into our lives and actively seeking what brings us joy, we can unlock our full potential. Embracing deliberate practice, exploring diverse interests, and fostering a growth mindset are actionable steps that can guide us on this journey. Remember, the deepest "aha's" come from encounters and returns, and it is through repetition that we can truly connect the dots in our lives.