The Learning Curve

One of the most important lessons that I have learned about learning a skill is to be aware of The Learning Curve. I have no idea if it has been scientifically proven but it makes intuitive sense. Let me explain.

The Learning Curve (not pictured here) is what you would see on a line graph if you plotted out your ability to perform some task over a period of time. There are 3 stages of The Learning Curve.

#1 - Improvement Stage

In this stage you are experiencing measureable/observable gains in your skill level. When you use a line graph to illustrate your ability during this stage across a period of time, the line moves in an upward direction. The Improvement Stage is associated with feelings of mastery over the skills being practiced.

For example, you reach a new record for the number of clean catches for a trick.

#2 - Plateau Stage

In this stage you are no longer experiencing measureable/observable gains in your skill level. When you use a line graph to illustrate your abilities during this stage across a period of time, the line moves in a horizontal direction. The Platuea Stage is associated with feelings of boredom with the skills being practiced.

For example, you practice a trick over and over with out making it work any better or worse that the last attempt.

#3 - Decline Stage

In this stage you are experiencing measurable/observable decreases in your skill level. When you use a line graph to illustrate your abilities during this stage across a period of time, the line moves in a downward direction. The Decline Stage is associated with feelings of frustration with the skills being practiced.

For example, the trick you pulled consistently last week is getting dropped consistently this week.

HOW WILL KNOWLEDGE ABOUT THE LEARNING CURVE HELP ME?

You will go through each stage frequently. Knowing that the Plateau Stage and Decline Stage are a part of the learning process will help you to stay persistent until you reach another rewarding Improvement Stage. While your learning during the Plateau Stage and Decline Stage appears to be non-existent, it is actually occuring on a deeper level. Your unconscious mind is piecing the puzzle together and doing the necessary "behind the scenes work" before your conscious mind and physical body will be able to express it.

Don't fret over the Plateaus and Declines. As long as you keep practicing you will continue to push your skill level higher and higher.

Do you know where you are in The Learning Curve?