A comment on a previous post has me thinking about what makes learning possible.

In any situation, even from infancy, one element that is absolutely essential in order for learning to take place is the ability to see that one thing is different from another.

Perception of Difference Leads to Patience

As a child, I remember watching Sesame Street on public television.  When Bert and Ernie and Big Bird sang about, “…One of these things is not like the other…”, they were teaching this fundamental element of learning, called differentiation.

In this video I talk about how I’ve come to be a better learner and subsequently a better teacher by learning to see the smallest changes, the smallest differences in myself and in others. This has led to an ability to be patient with the process of learning.

So, “thank God!” for variety, for success and for failure.

To improve the ability to adjust and learn from failures or successes in any area, we need to develop patience with ourselves and with circumstances so we can learn to notice even the tiniest changes in performance or in outcomes.  Whether in relation to our own performance, that of our children or the performance and outcomes of those we work with or teach what we know, the ability to be patient and to notice the smallest of changes can contribute to our continued success and the success of those around us.

If you found this interesting or if it resonates with you, I invite you to leave a comment to further the discussion and to share it with those you work with and care about. Be patient with them and with yourself and notice every small change and difference.