“Are you in learning mode or performing mode?” I recollect our master facilitator call out every time we began a practice session. We had to say aloud, “I am in learning mode”
Initially, I wondered about the difference it would make. Gradually, it became obvious; while in learning mode, we were
willing to experiment and try new ways of delivery
open to make mistakes and not overthink about them
grateful for feedback and suggestions received, belief that people give feedback only when they care
learning to enjoy the journey, not just focusing on the destination
in a relaxed state of mind, working and learning amongst friends
Had we been in performance mode, here’s how it’s likely to play out:
focus is on flawless execution, perfect delivery
no room for mistakes as they can be disastrous, seen as proof of incompetence
feedback feels like someone is trying to find faults or holding back
achieving the goals on time is critical
anxious to succeed, constantly checking to make sure I am on right track
Both modes are important – one cannot and should not stay in either mode forever! However, it’s important to know which mode to use when, and how often.
If we spend too much in performance mode, we will stay in our comfort zone, avoid making mistakes, getting reprimanded. We will never try something new or different at work.
On the other hand, too much time spent in learning mode is detrimental as we will restrict our ability to truly deliver great performance (which we are ultimately preparing for)
When we find a balance between two modes, we will be ready to execute in performance mode with minimal mistakes in high pressure situations with confidence.
At the outset, I would like to thank you for stopping by my Blog.
I believe that there is nothing right or wrong in this world. What’s right in this moment and context may be wrong in another moment and context. This belief has inspired me to name my blog ‘Perspectives’.
Perspectives is a platform for me to share my experiences, thoughts and perspectives on various subjects. You may have a different point of view. I look forward to hearing them, these are the triggers for rich and deep conversations.
On personal front, I live in Mumbai, India. I love to read; Somerset Maugham and Nevil Shute are my favorite authors. My favorite books are The Razor’s Edge, Mrs. Craddock, Chequer Board and Gone with the Wind. I am thankful to my father who inculcated the habit of reading in me early on.
I am also passionate about traveling, I have been to most parts of India and to several countries across the globe.
On professional front, I work in Human Resources function. Over two and half decades, I have worked across multiple industries and cultures. I focus on Leadership Development, Talent Management, Visioning and Culture, Large-scale change, Employee Listening & Engagement, Employee Well-being, Inclusive work culture, HR effectiveness, Behavior and Mind-set shifts through sustained interventions
I currently lead Organization Effectiveness Function for Aditya Birla Group, a $44.3 billion conglomerate with 120000 employees across 35 countries.
I sincerely hope that you will enjoy reading my blog. I look forward to your thoughts and suggestions.
Thank you!
View all posts by Padma Rajeswari Nandi
Perspectives 