Hit a plateau? Try this

In the first weeks of covid lockdowns I began learning French on DuoLingo. I still can’t speak much French beyond the absolute basics but I *do* have a 1,322 day streak! Lately, I noticed that while I’d been dutifully logging in each day, I was doing the bare minimum. The love was gone. My motivation was waning. Quel horreur! I had reached a plateau!

So, I’ve mixed it up and, while keeping DuoLingo in play (can’t risk that streak) I’ve added in French lessons on a different app, Babbel. Babbel teaches in quite a different way which I am finding refreshing. My motivation is returning. The synapses are lighting back up. C’est magnifique.

And no, I’m not being paid for either of these mentions. But it did get me thinking about the new leadership habits so many of my clients are wiring in.

When you're dedicated to learning a new skill or establishing a new habit – or even/especially changing in how you think about things - hitting a plateau can feel like running into invisible glue. Your early progress, once rapid and motivating, suddenly slows down or even seems to stop altogether.

You may experience procrastination, frustration or brain glug (technical term). It's a common part of the learning process, but that doesn't make it any less frustrating.

However, understanding why plateaus happen and how to overcome them can help you push through to the next level of your development.

Firstly, it's important to recognise that hitting a plateau doesn't mean you're failing. It's simply a sign that your brain and body are consolidating what you've learned. This period of apparent stagnation is actually when the deeper learning is happening, embedding the new skills or habits into your long-term memory.

A short fallow period for consolidation is great, but how do you get moving again if it doesn’t seem to happen spontaneously? Here’s a few ideas…

1. Re-evaluate Your Goals

Take another look at what you are aiming for. Is your goal clear and achievable? Is it something you actually want to achieve? Adjusting your objectives to be more specific and appealing can help restore mojo, with renewed focus and a clearer path forward.

2. Vary Your Methods

If you've been sticking to one approach, try mixing things up. A new method (like my shift to a new language app) can stimulate your interest and engagement, providing a fresh perspective and potentially unlocking further progress.

3. Get Some Feedback

Getting an outside perspective can be incredibly valuable. Whether it's from a mentor, a peer, or even online forums, feedback can highlight blind spots and offer new strategies.

4. Take a Break

Sometimes, the best way to overcome a plateau is to step away for a bit and let that fallow period do its thing. Rest and time away can allow your mind to process and integrate your efforts, leading to breakthroughs upon your return.

5. Celebrate Your Progress

Don't overlook the progress you've already made. Recognising and celebrating small victories can boost your motivation and help you maintain momentum.

Experiencing a plateau is usually a sign that you're on the right path, not a reason to give up. By adjusting your approach and staying flexible, you can navigate through your plateau and emerge more skilled and resilient on the other side. Allons-y!

Until next week,

Take care of yourself and others

Madeleine

PS: Need some help changing some work or leadership habits? Let me know if you’d like to talk and please share with anyone you think may benefit.

I help accomplished professionals untangle difficult career questions so they can thrive in work and life.

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