Learning as THE strategy

Embracing Learning as The Strategy: A Revolutionary Approach to Thriving in the Singularity Era

In our rapidly evolving world, where artificial intelligence and technological advancements are reshaping the very fabric of society, humans must adapt to not just survive, but flourish. This adaptation requires cultivating two crucial attributes: Psychological Capital and Learning as The Strategy (LaTS).

The Power of Psychological Capital

Imagine facing every challenge with an unwavering “Yes, I can!” attitude. This is the essence of Psychological Capital, encompassing resilience, optimism, and the ability to grow stronger from setbacks (Antifragility). As we approach the Singularity – a hypothetical near future point where AI surpasses human intelligence – this mindset becomes our psychological armor, transforming potential threats into exciting opportunities¹.

It is important to differentiate it from learning strategies, which is a set of very practical tools to enhance individual learning. LaTS is a mindset, a way of life, an approach to tasks, projects and life itself.

Learning as The Strategy: A Paradigm Shift

LaTS is more than just acquiring knowledge; it’s a revolutionary approach to life itself. Consider it a mental operating system upgrade for the Singularity era. Here’s what makes LaTS extraordinary:

Proactive: Anticipates future challenges rather than merely reacting to them.
Prevention-oriented: Focuses on avoiding problems before they arise.
Long-term & Future-focused: Prepares us for the unknown horizons of tomorrow.
Eco-systemic: Considers the interconnectedness of all things.
Non-zero-sum: Embraces abundance and mutual benefit.
Contextual: Factors in the situation and adapts the learning to various scenarios (remember Scenario Planning?) and
Inclusive: makes an effort to include the different perspectives of diverse groups. (You can look up the Interests Management Matrix at the Poiesys website to see a tool to do this)

LaTS in Action: From Cycling to Circuses

Imagine transforming a mediocre cycling team into world champions through the power of 1% improvements. That’s exactly what coach Dave Brailsford did with the British Cycling team. By applying strategic learning to every aspect of cycling, from pedalling techniques to hand-washing habits, Brailsford demonstrated the incredible potential of LaTS. Similarly, the creation of Cirque du Soleil showcases how challenging assumptions through strategic learning can revolutionize an entire industry. These examples illustrate how LaTS can turn ordinary situations into extraordinary opportunities for growth and innovation.

Cultivating Your LaTS Mindset

Ready to embark on your LaTS journey? Try this exciting exercise:

Choose three upcoming events in your week. Any event, it can be going to the grocery or meeting an old pal for coffee. Write down the event (1 line).
Before each event, jot down what you’d like to learn from it (2-3 lines).
Participate in the event as usual.
Immediately after, record what you actually learned (2-3 lines).
After completing all three events, analyse HOW you learn.

This simple yet powerful tool can transform your perspective, exercise it and it will transmogrify your mind set.

The Perils of Ignoring LaTS

History is rife with cautionary tales of what happens when we fail to embrace LaTS. From the Maginot Line before WWII, through the hi-tech fence the Israeli defence forces built around their border with Gaza, to economic tariffs, rigid thinking and failure to adapt have led to catastrophic consequences. In our Singularity-bound world, clinging to outdated strategies is like sailing towards the shore in a storm – it feels safe, but it’s actually the most dangerous place to be.

There are many more examples of undefeatable walls that resulted to be indefensible. Tactical learning will recommend them. LaTS would warn, that building them anesthetize the “threat senses” of any organization or nation. So whenever you build a unbreakable defence in parallel develop antifragile learning.

Conclusion: Embracing the Learning Adventure

As we navigate the stormy seas of technological disruption, LaTS becomes our compass and sail. It’s not just about surviving the Singularity; it’s about harnessing its power to reach new horizons of human potential. So, let’s cast off from the familiar shores of tactical learning and set course for the exciting, uncharted waters of Learning as The Strategy. Remember, in this grand cosmic adventure, we’re here to learn, grow, and evolve.

To paraphrase Pablo Picasso, “it takes 4 years to learn a degree, but a lifetime to learn how to learn like a child.” Children are born with a LaTS mentality and they put it to use the best way possible: playing.

The real unicorn isn’t a billion-dollar startup – it’s the transformative power of learning itself. Are you ready to embark on this thrilling journey of continuous discovery and growth? The future belongs to those who learn!