The Science Behind Personal Development: Unpacking the 70 20 10 Rule
Personal development is a popular topic nowadays, with more and more people looking to improve themselves either by learning new skills or developing existing ones. But what makes personal development effective? How can we ensure that we are making the most of our efforts to improve ourselves? One framework that has gained traction in recent years is the 70 20 10 rule.
What is the 70 20 10 rule?
The 70 20 10 rule is a framework that suggests that successful personal development consists of 70% experiential learning, 20% social learning, and 10% formal learning. This means that the majority of our personal development should be based on learning by doing, while the rest should come from interacting with others and attending formal training.
Experiential learning
Experiential learning refers to learning through experience, either by trial and error or by actively seeking out new challenges. This can involve taking on new projects at work, learning a new skill or hobby, or even traveling to new places to broaden our horizons. The key is to be proactive and seek out new experiences that challenge us and allow us to learn and grow.
Social learning
Social learning involves learning from others, either through informal conversations or by intentionally seeking out mentors and role models. This can involve networking with other professionals, attending industry conferences or workshops, or participating in online communities. By learning from others who have already achieved what we hope to achieve, we can gain valuable insights and advice that can help us achieve our goals faster and more efficiently.
Formal learning
Formal learning refers to learning that takes place in a structured setting, such as a classroom or workshop. This can involve attending a university course, taking part in a training program offered by your employer, or completing an online course. While formal learning is important, it is only a small part of the overall equation, as most personal development happens outside of formal settings.
Why is the 70 20 10 rule effective?
The 70 20 10 rule is effective because it takes into account how we actually learn and develop as individuals. By focusing on experiential and social learning rather than just formal learning, we are able to develop a more well-rounded set of skills and experiences that can be applied in a wide variety of contexts. Additionally, by embracing new challenges and seeking out new opportunities to learn and grow, we can stay motivated and engaged in our personal development efforts.
Conclusion
In summary, the 70 20 10 rule is a useful framework for understanding how we learn and grow as individuals. By focusing on experiential and social learning rather than just formal learning, we can ensure that our personal development efforts are well-rounded and effective. Additionally, by seeking out new challenges and opportunities to learn and grow, we can stay engaged and motivated in our personal development efforts. So, if you’re looking to improve yourself, remember the 70 20 10 rule and focus on learning by doing, learning from others, and engaging in formal learning when needed.
