Learning Through "Real-Life Roleplays"
As a lifelong learner, sometimes life hits me with glimpses of knowledge: real-life experiences that provide the best lessons. I consider educational tools as key to my self-induced learning journey. Reading books, taking courses, watching videos, and listening to podcasts are some of the activities I ensure to include in my weekly agenda. However, I also believe in those random life experiences that give us the chance to practice what we learn in books. I find great lessons when life presents challenging situations in which I want to be able to apply the "theory" I have learned through the formal tools. For example, I recently had a harsh encounter with a person who approached me using an abrasive tone of voice, claiming that I had acted "dumb and stupid." (It was a parking-related conflict, and the person is known to me). I instantly realized that was a chance to keep practicing some of the emotional intelligence techniques I had studied for so long. I have learned about not taking the actions of others personally and remaining calm and respectful regardless of the other person's behavior. That was precisely what I did. I felt good about how I behaved, but I left resentful after the interaction. My mind ruminated for a couple of days about the incident, thinking about what I should have done differently.
In the same way, we are constantly exposed at workplaces to what I call "real-life roleplays." These are instances in which we can practice techniques we have learned in courses, books, or conferences. For example, we can practice handling a conflict, relating to others, and communicating assertively as if we were performing a roleplay. We can approach those life and work situations with an "intellectual" approach. We can be more mindful of how we act, and we can consciously choose our actions just as we would in a workshop role play.
Here are some of my major takeaways from my experiences practicing what I've learned through "real-life roleplays":
When faced with a real chance to practice what you have learned in a seminar or a book, be aware of what you did right and recognize yourself without pride or ideas of superiority. Instead, acknowledge your ability to practice a new skill, competency, behavior, or attitude.
Afterward, reflect on what you would have preferred to do differently without regret or self-deprecating thoughts.
Observe your behavior and leave it there without judgment, just as a learning experience to keep in mind for the next real-life roleplay. Surely it will arrive someday soon!
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Revised August 2022
Written by Annie-Mariel Arroyo, PH.D
Dr. Annie-Mariel Arroyo-Calixto is a practiced organizational psychologist with more than 28 years of professional experience in organizational change and leadership development. Dr. Arroyo is the founder of Culture To Fit, where for the past 22 years, she has helped leaders build or reshape their organizational culture and lead transformation. She is a seasoned leadership educator and a renowned executive coach known for her ability to guide leaders in gaining deeper insights and self-growth.
