As athletes, finding the right balance between challenge and skill is key to making progress. This perfect balance is what we call the Sweet Spot—the point where you’re pushed just enough to grow but not so much that you become overwhelmed.
In his book The Talent Code, Daniel Coyle explains, “It's all about finding the sweet spot. There's an optimal gap between what you know and what you're trying to do. When you find that sweet spot, learning takes off.” This is where you’re stretched slightly beyond your current abilities, allowing for real improvement.
But how can you consistently find and practice in that sweet spot? One of the best tools I use is a game called "Add-On". This game helps athletes progressively increase their challenges by gradually adding new skills, making it a perfect exercise for targeting the sweet spot.
How to Play "Add-On"
Here’s how you can incorporate "Add-On" into your next training session:
Start Simple: Begin with a basic skill that you’re comfortable with—something you’ve already mastered.
Add a Skill: Once you’ve completed that first skill, add another one to the sequence. Now you have a two-part combination.
Keep Adding: Continue adding one skill at a time to the sequence. Each time you repeat the full combination, add another skill, gradually increasing the complexity.
Reach Your Sweet Spot: The game continues until you feel yourself reaching that point where you’re challenged but not frustrated. This is where you’ll learn the most.
Why the "Add-On" Game Works
"Add-On" forces you to push your boundaries while still building on skills you’re familiar with. This gradual progression keeps you engaged and focused, but also makes sure you’re always operating just outside your comfort zone—right in that sweet spot.
Improves Focus: You’re forced to concentrate on each skill individually while keeping the bigger sequence in mind.
Builds Confidence: As you successfully add more skills, your confidence grows, which is crucial for mastering new techniques.
Encourages Adaptability: Because you’re constantly modifying the sequence, this game teaches adaptability, a vital skill for any athlete.
Next time you’re in the gym, give "Add-On" a try. Not only will it help you discover your sweet spot, but it’ll also make training more fun and effective. Remember, progress happens when you push just beyond what you already know—and that’s where true learning begins.
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