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Ultralearning: Scott Young’s principles to learning like a leader

Monday morning, a team meets to workshop strategies for an upcoming project. The team hits a snag, though, when their team leader makes an awkward fumble. The project requires integration with a new platform that the team leader is trained on. The moment passes with a heavy, uncomfortable silence as another member is forced to step in and lead the conversation. 


In another office that same morning, a team meets for a similar situation. However, this team’s leader has taken the time to familiarize herself with the new systems. Her willingness to learn and engage with evolving systems has given her–and her team–the confidence and trust they need to push forward. One leader has stalled their team and its success, the other became the fuel for momentum. 


The truth is, continuous learning is essential–not just for the workplace, but for life. Continuous learning is paramount for your growth and development as a human. Our story reveals a much larger truth: continuous learning is essential for effective leadership. In today’s fast-moving world, leaders must not only inspire but adapt, learn, and grow. 


Whether it’s sharpening hard skills like emerging tech or refining soft skills like communication and empathy, expanding your skill set is no longer optional—it’s a critical part of career longevity and leadership authenticity. In fact, broadening leadership capabilities is one of the four pillars of successful leadership development. Not only can learning new things boost confidence and increase motivation, but the latest research even suggests it keeps your brain healthier and more resilient over time.

So, what’s the best approach to growth? Ultralearning.


What is Ultralearning?


Coined by author Scott H. Young in his powerful book, “Ultralearning” describes a self-directed learning strategy designed to help you master hard skills and principles in a faster and more efficient way. It’s not just about quickly covering the basics of a topic, it involves strategically and systemically learning in a way that strengthens your mind and ensures positive growth. Ultralearning offers a powerful road map to skill development and growth. Whether you’re pursuing personal growth, exploring a new leadership role, or wanting to stay on top of industry changes, Ultralearning could be your key to success. In his book, Young introduces 9 revolutionary principles of Ultralearning aimed at ensuring success and growth. Today, we’re taking a close look at 4 of these ideas and exploring what they mean, how they work, and how to put them into practice.


4 principles to Ultralearning according to Scott H. Young


1. Draw a map


Before you dive right into a subject, take a moment to draw out a roadmap of learning. What is it you’re hoping to learn? Why is it important to you or your team? What resources, time, or strategies can you use? Consider what it will really take to learn and develop the skills you’re aiming for. Then, take some time to reflect on what obstacles you might face. Is the subject or skill one that you aren’t naturally inclined to? This is not just a strategy to get you to a certain end, but a roadmap to success. Further, this map isn’t simply a plan, but your why–your reason for action.



2. Attack your weakest points


It’s tempting, when pursuing growth, to practice what we already know, or to improve upon skills we’re already fairly good at. It’s harder, yet much more fruitful, to do the opposite. Meaningful growth happens when we face our learning gaps or weakest points head-on. Identify the points you struggle with the most and attack those points with full force. Let’s say, for example, that your tech skills are exemplary. Public speaking, however, leaves you with weak knees, sweaty palms, and a sense of utter dread. In this case, public speaking is very clearly a weak point–one that you shouldn’t avoid, but rather target. This approach ensures that you’re not just learning, but continually improving and developing areas that will make the biggest impact.


3. Get and use feedback wisely


Feedback can often be fuel for growth. Though many of us see feedback as inherently negative, it can open our eyes to the areas in need of growth and improvement. Young suggests that we seek input often and avoid being defensive about unbiased takes on our performance. Use feedback to pinpoint where you’re progressing and what areas still need a bit more targeted practice. Don’t overlook the feedback that comes in unexpected forms, either. Client push-back, lack of team engagement, and even that one complaint in your inbox can highlight some much-needed opportunities for growth. 



4. Dive deeper


True learning goes beyond a memorization of facts or simple, surface-level understanding of basic elements. Ultralearning pushes us to dive deeper. It’s about understanding the why behind the what. Dig into the theory, history, and real-world application of a subject and/or skill. This is the difference between an actor merely reading a script and being able perform and improvise beautifully within the framework of the script. Remember, Ultralearning and developing is about seeking insight, not just information. Go beyond memorization. Dive deeper into the subject and explore the underlying principles. 



Whether you’re trying to grow as a leader, adapt to an ever-evolving tech landscape, or simply sharpen your mind, continual learning is key. Ultralearning offers the best framework for acquiring skills and becoming the authentic, adaptable leader you’re striving to be. 


If you’re serious about growth and development, then you’re in the right place. Our free and downloadable resources offer you the jump-start you need to begin your growth journey. Ready for a more impactful approach? Consider our Leadership Coaching services geared toward leaders like you who are aiming to drive success and inspire your team. And, if you haven’t yet, pick up a copy of Scott H. Young’s “Ultralearning” today.



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