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Frame 1: The Benchmark

 

A Fitting Place to Start

Welcome, as we embark on a series where we explore how principles from bowling serve as an entry point for application to various aspects of life and work. In the introductory post, we discussed why bowling will serve as our metaphor for having an impact in our day-to-day role as a follower; in short, I'm an "honorary" bowling coach with a fictional book on the "Zen of Bowling". Today we stand, in our rented shoes, ready to prepare for our first frame.

 

"Your initial steps set the tone for your journey. Approach them with curiosity and a willingness to learn."

 

Understanding the Benchmark in Bowling

In bowling, the initial balls thrown when a bowler arrives at their lane can be referred to as the benchmark. These first shots are crucial as they help bowlers gauge lane conditions and adjust their strategies accordingly. During every frame of the game, factors such as the oil pattern, lane friction, and environmental conditions can significantly impact how the ball behaves. By paying close attention to the performance of these initial shots, bowlers can gather valuable data to inform their game plan for the rest of the session.

 

Applying the Benchmark to Life and New Endeavors

Starting a new job, joining a new group, or embarking on a new project can be likened to throwing those first benchmark shots in bowling. Just as bowlers use their initial shots to understand the lane conditions, you can use your first interactions and contributions in a new setting to gauge the dynamics, challenges, and opportunities ahead.

 

 

Imagine stepping onto the metaphorical "lane" of your new environment. Your initial experiences serve as the benchmark for your journey. These early moments allow you to assess the atmosphere, understand expectations, and identify key players and factors at play. Much like adjusting your strategy based on the outcome of your first bowling shots, adapting to a new environment requires keen observation and flexibility.

 

If your initial contributions are well-received, you may find a smooth path ahead, encouraging you to continue with confidence. Conversely, if you encounter unexpected challenges, you may need to recalibrate your approach, just as a bowler might switch balls or adjust their technique.

 

Your first interactions in a new environment are your benchmark—use them to gather insights and adjust your strategy accordingly.

 

The Role of Skill and Humility

We’re not all skilled bowlers, and similarly, not everyone is immediately adept in a new role or group. An unskilled bowler may lack knowledge of technique, lane conditions, and strategy. Similarly, someone new to a group may struggle to understand its dynamics, norms, and expectations initially. However, just as an unskilled bowler can improve with practice and guidance, individuals new to a group can grow and develop their skills over time.

 

The key to growth in both scenarios is a willingness to learn and adapt. Skilled bowlers possess a deep understanding of the game and can make informed adjustments based on their experiences. Similarly, individuals who approach new situations with a growth mindset and a willingness to learn from both successes and failures are more likely to progress and become valuable contributors.

 

Embracing a Growth Mindset

Embracing a growth mindset necessitates humility and the willingness to set aside pride. For skilled bowlers, humility allows them to remain open to new techniques and strategies that could further refine their skills. Despite their proficiency, they recognize that there is always room for improvement. They approach setbacks with humility, viewing them as opportunities for reflection and refinement rather than as blows to their ego.

 

Similarly, unskilled bowlers rely on humility to navigate the learning curve. They understand that proficiency takes time and that mistakes are a natural part of the learning process. By setting aside their pride and embracing challenges as opportunities for growth, unskilled bowlers remain motivated and persistent in their pursuit of improvement.

 

 

The Zen of the Benchmark

Starting out with anything brings uncertainty and unknowns. Embrace this with humility and learn everything you can through initial inquiry and practice. If you have the opportunity to "throw a few balls" without significant negative consequences, do so with the intention of gaining knowledge and insight for when it matters. Don’t shy away from your uncertainty; embrace it. Acknowledging that you don’t know something or that something isn’t perfect is the first step towards intentional learning and efficient improvement.

 

Ask questions, learn from others, seek feedback: use the benchmark.

 

As you embark on new endeavors, remember the benchmark. Use your initial experiences to gather valuable insights, adapt with humility, and embrace the journey of continuous growth and learning. Embracing a growth mindset means seeing every frame, every ball, every interaction as a chance to learn and improve. Ask questions, learn from others, seek feedback: use the benchmark.