Do/Learn/Refine
Exploring success principles that move us forward.
Do/Learn/Refine
To achieve ever-increasing success, we must adopt a process of ever-increasing improvement. The simplest process is Do/Learn/Refine.
Do
When we start something new, the goal is to get the ideas out of our head and into some sort of physical (or digital) form. This step is critical because it gives us something to work with.
Learn
Once we have something to work with, we’ll see the things that need to be improved.
Refine
Once we see the things that need to be improved, we can then start refining.
Repeat
Repeat again and again. You will always learn more and gain new insights.
Over the years I have grown to trust this process. In fact, I can say this idea started twenty years ago when I chose to start creating with purpose and meaning. It has been a continuous process of Do/Learn/Refine.
What Holds us Back?
There is a risk in pushing the GO button. You don’t want to learn how to drive in busy traffic. You probably shouldn’t perform surgery before having many years of training.
That being said, we tend to make the risks way bigger than they are.
For example, what is the risk of me putting out the first newsletter and not having a clear design yet? Zero risk. So do it. And I did.
Today I gave myself one hour to write this newsletter. I felt one hour was generous and would constrain me to keep it simple, clear, and most importantly, DONE.
Benefits of the Do/Learn/Refine Principle
Here is the power of the Do/Learn/Refine principle:
Start sooner.
Start simple.
Gain insight by doing.
Gain the ability to diagnose problems.
Gain the ability to redesign.
Apply this process to the value you create. This is where you get the biggest payoff. Repeat the process forever. The Do/Learn/Refine process is how you gain understanding. Apply what you know today. Refine as you learn more.
Finally
As always, feedback is crucial (that’s a principle). I would like to know what you are struggling with or simply what you would like to know more about. If you are reading this in your inbox, just reply with your question.
I will close this newsletter with my definition of success. If this definition resonates with you, then I'm confident we can grow together.
"I believe the best definition of success is living a life of integrity while pursuing your dreams. Success is manifested by the daily creation of value that serves others."
To your success!
James Wilder
Exploring success principles that move us forward.
simple systems work best!