27. The Stages of Learning

There’s a learning model that psychologists use called “The 4 Stages of Competency” which, put simply identifies the psychological state involved in progressing from incompetence to competence in a particular skill. 

I find these types of models fascinating - and if you do, too - Google has a ton of information that you can look up to learn more. Now, as financial coaches, understanding this model will help you set reasonable expectations with your clients as they change their financial behavior and learn new (and better!) financial strategies. 

Setting your clients up for success includes reminding them that forming new habits may be hard at first, but with consistent actions and repetition, things get easier (because they become more skilled and competent). 

But when you understand the entire model, you start to be able to lead people through growth and change, because you’ll more readily recognize it (and then, you can use it in your marketing to create “AH-HA!” moments that hit home).