A brain surgeon would never try a new operation without practice or in-depth study, and an NBA basketball player would never try out a new move or shot in game 7 of the playoffs.
What is unique about these examples is that these jobs know they have skills they must continue to hon and improve on They learn, make improvements, adjustments through an iterative process. They also have a network around them fellow surgeons/players, coaches, and mentors to seek guidance from.
This “Learning Zone” is where you will find the high performers. Look for people doing this. Ask what they are doing. And…. Enter the Learning Zone!
In addition it’s important that leaders help create these learning zones. The best hospitals and sports teams have a culture and environment that encourages and rewards their staff and teammates who enter the learning zone.
This Ted talk has some great extra detail about this learning zone. Definitely worth the 3 mins to watch it.