The iterative approach may be loosely likened to the scaffolding approach often used in education or corporate learning. When we seek to learn anything of substance or set goals to move us to where we want to be with a project, career or business we need a series of steps that move us onward and upward. In education, scaffolding refers to a variety of instructional techniques used to move students progressively toward stronger understanding and, ultimately, greater independence in the learning process. A student may learn from proximity accompanied by observation or mimicry.

Ultimately the goal is independent thought and progress. An iterative approach is critical to ensure that each layer of learning links to the one before and continues the movement forward. Otherwise, the learner may fail to make the necessary connections to get where they want to be. In business or career goal setting, scaffolding refers to the ladder approach to building a progressive plan. It is wise to start with the end in mind. It’s essential to develop a firm foundation for the scaffold so it holds as we move up the structure.

Each piece of the scaffolding must fit together firmly for it to hold as well. Sometimes trial and error is needed. We must be prepared to shift as we learn something new along the way to ensure we achieve the ultimate goal we desire rather than simply focusing on each tactical element. Each step in the ladder must have a purpose that leads to the next and so on.  

At the planning stage, the iterative is enormously useful. Iteration is the repetition of a process in an attempt to generate a sequence of outcomes. Building a plan that recognizes the value of iteration ensures regular feedback that ensures progress and learning along the way.

Each sequence will approach some end point or end value. Then, each repetition of the process is a single iteration, and the outcome of each iteration is then the starting point of the next iteration. While with this approach, the planning is continuous, all initial planning must anticipate and account for it while containing components that feed into the experimental mindset.

Once an individual, team or organization learns to work together using an iterative approach to planning and executing ideas, continuous learning and growth becomes endemic to their work culture and way of engaging. An individual with this skill or trait is an invaluable part of any team.  

Be iterative in Solving Problems

Most of us know that a problem is more easily resolved when the root is discovered. Furthermore, solving most problems requires an experimental approach. Leading a team or moving a business out of systemic problems or any crisis rarely is a straightforward or obvious journey.

Those versed in the iterative approach are more likely to produce progress effectively. Earlier I described the iterative as a repetitive process applied in an attempt to generate a sequence of outcomes. This is essential to solving complex problems. Moreover, it is helpful to solve all problems.

When we reflect on solving a complex problem, most of us will recognize how important it was that we adjusted and reiterated our approach as, in real time, we observed the impact of each step in our process. Iteration is generative. Solution building requires a generative mindset.

Many people suffer from feeling stuck. What makes this such a common point of pain? In my observation this is largely because most of us feel the need to pick a lane and stay there or risk failure. I will admit there have been challenging times in my career when I wondered why I didn’t stick in one field or industry for longer.

Perhaps I would have become an expert in that field. If feels great to be an expert. It feeds our ego, at some level. That isn’t who I wanted to be though. I am a generalist – I enjoy having a broader perspective and relying on experts for advice. When I look back through this perspective, I see how my career progressed as I sought new challenges and opportunities. It was a scaffold of progressive learning and growth. It wasn’t easy this way. I wasn’t able to relax at any time.

Thankfully, relaxation and being comfortable was never a goal for me though. Being iterative in a career means we constantly shift and grow and find challenges and new problems to solve. Those who fear feeling stuck or suffer from being there need to learn the lesson of living an iterative life. This is a generative life. It generates opportunities and unique experiences and new problems to solve.  

Life is one big Experiment

The underlying point, again this week, emphasizes the benefit of approaching life as an experiment. Of course, when we are able to iterate we continue to look for ways to improve everything we do. Furthermore, we may then more closely monitor how our choices, decisions and ability to adjust our actions to our current situation. Then, we may influence how things unfold. There’s a difference between wanting something and making something happen. With the mindset necessary to perform under pressure we are able to influence results more deeply. This mindset that relies on clarity, curiosity and a resilient spirit we accept no excuses, only results. Furthermore, it’s essential we have a system to evaluate the risk of any action, removing the very human emotions that cloud our judgment. Walk with me. Together let’s examine options consciously and authentically to make choices that move us strategically toward where we want to be. Strategy is a about choices. Execution on these choices requires masterful performance. Furthermore, a well developed process allows us to enjoy the journey far more fully.  

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Iterative is a foundation to Banking Your Impact (BYI)

The Bank Your Impact (BYI) System is about both developing and embedding self-awareness. Furthermore, the benefits of expanded resilience, connections built on understanding the impact of belonging and an ability to bolster a professional and authentic presence are foundational. Perhaps more than the other two, developing a foundational resilience is critical to with standing that which moves us into burnout.

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