deliberate practice
James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, states that deliberate practice is both purposeful and systematic. It is ‘effortful in nature’, with the primary goal being personal performance improvement rather than enjoyment. According to Angela Duckman in Grit, deliberate practice has four clearly designated components, which include a stretch goal, concentration, feedback and repetition.
If deliberate practice is rooted in behaviours, and behaviours can be cultivated and fostered, how can we set ourselves up for success?
1. A clearly defined stretch goal
A stretch goal, as defined by the Oxford dictionary, is a “deliberately challenging or ambitious aim or objective”. When we understand the goal is meant to reach beyond our current capacity, it highlights the importance of process-focus over outcome-focus, as the likelihood of ‘failure’ is high. With completion to 100% unlikely, it is perhaps not our desired result to begin with.
“Experts practice by setting a stretch goal, zeroing in on one narrow aspect of performance, and then strive to improve specific weaknesses” Angela Duckman
2. Full concentration and effort
Full concentration requires an uninterrupted space for an uninterrupted period of time. Distractions need to be removed (including phones and access to the internet). Create or clear a space so it is unimpeded by other activities or projects.
3. Immediate and informative feedback
Maintain awareness over what is happening moment-to-moment. Hold non-judgement. Everything that is occurring is simply information - not to be evaluated as negative or positive. Self-limiting beliefs will arise, recognise them and put them to the side. Expand on what is working. Accept that the process is ugly, uncomfortable and humbling. You will be worse than you hoped and that is a sign you are on the right track.
4. Repetition with reflection and refinement
Practice by creating a practice. Utilise daily rituals to support habit-making. Reflect on what is effective with flexibility and focus. Habits set must support continuous growth, with the ability to change over time.
With the right tools at our disposal we have real, tangible influence over the gradual but inevitable improvement in the areas of life we deeply desire to better.
That’s pretty great.