About this quote

Actual learning comes when you do the thing yourself. Listening can give you facts, but practice carves the skill into memory. Try handing over a real task next time you want someone to learn — let them make the mistake and fix it. Ask for one small, active step and you will see faster, longer-lasting results.

When to use it

• During new-hire training at my company I tell the trainer, 'Let me try the process once while you watch; I learn faster by doing.'
• In the college chemistry lab I ask the TA, 'Can I mix this myself? I remember experiments when I do them.'
• While teaching my daughter to ride a bike I say, 'Hold the seat for a lap, then let go — she'll learn when she balances on her own.'
• At soccer practice I ask the coach, 'Let me run the drill a couple of times; I pick up the pattern by doing it.'