So I was teaching a tough lesson last week. Students were chatting, checking their smart phones… some were even listening to music in their ear buds. I know, right!? Nothing sends a more clear message to an instructor — HS teacher, college professor, or corporate trainer — I don’t respect your expertise, and I want to remain the same today as I was yesterday. So much for 1% better every day. If you’re not growing, you’re shrinking. Did you know that 1% better each day for a year is 125,833% better than 1% worse each day? That’s the power of cumulative advantage!

I have often pondered this behavior over the years. The only rational conclusion most teachers can reach is that these students just don’t want to learn. They are outsourcing their attention. What they’re doing may give immediate pleasure, but they are contributing to their cumulative disadvantage later in life.

Some lament that the lessons aren’t exciting. But things that are helpful are often not fun. Running on a treadmill and eating salads aren’t as exciting as couch surfing with a box of twinkies.

To paraphrase Jim Rohn, you’re going to experience pain. Decide whether you will experience the pain of learning, or the pain of regret. Cognitive engagement may be uncomfortable at times, but do you really want to live a life of regret? If the road to hell is paved with good intentions, then the road to living successfully is surely paved with good deeds.

If you want to improve each day, you cannot outsource your effort. What are you waiting for? The next year will pass whether you learn anything new or not. Why not hedge your bets? Do your work. Read a book. Talk to an expert. By doing some heavy lifting, you just might surprise yourself. Who’s to say you aren’t the next dot-com millionaire, superstar You-Tuber, or inventor?

See you next time.