The answer lies in the forgetting curve, developed by Hermann Ebbinghaus in 1885, which demonstrated that we can lose up to 50% of newly acquired knowledge within just a few hours if we don’t reinforce it. This explains why, after attending a training session or reading a book, we feel we understand the material—only for it to fade away shortly after.
However, learning is not just about receiving information but making it our own. As Anders Ericsson explains in Peak: Secrets from the New Science of Expertise (2016), the difference between a beginner and an expert lies in deliberate practice: repetition alone is not enough; structured training with clear objectives and constant feedback is essential.
How to Turn Information into Applied Knowledge
Research has shown that meaningful learning happens when:
- The “Generation Effect” is activated (Slamecka & Graf, 1978): We learn more effectively when we generate information rather than passively receiving it.
- We apply the “Spaced Practice” principle (Brown, Roediger & McDaniel, Make It Stick, 2014): Distributing learning over time enhances retention.
- We engage in “Deliberate Practice” (Ericsson, 2016): Intentional repetition, continuous error correction, and skill refinement lead to mastery.
- We work with a mentor or coach who not only guides the process but also helps challenge limiting beliefs and turn knowledge into action.
This is especially relevant in professional and business settings. How often have we participated in valuable training, only to find we don’t have the time to apply what we’ve learned? Daily tasks take over, urgent matters become the priority, and our newly acquired knowledge slowly fades away.
So, how can we ensure that learning becomes a true competitive advantage?
- Actively practicing in real-world scenarios.
- Creating spaces for reflection and self-assessment.
- Working with someone who challenges us and helps us integrate what we’ve learned.
Information is accessible to everyone, but mastery requires time, consistency, and commitment.
How do you ensure that what you learn truly stays with you?
This answer is longer… So I’ll leave it for the second part…
