Written by: Beth Rohani, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
In life, our journey isn't just about existing; it's about evolving and growing through the stages of competency. These stages—unconscious incompetence, conscious incompetence, conscious competence, and unconscious competence—shape our learning and development. Yet, it's often through trials, tribulations, and life-altering experiences that we gain an acute awareness of our competency levels and self-awareness.
Personal growth amidst adversity
Imagine a life in which you've known the comfort of long-term relationships, only to see them dissolve right in front of your eyes. Through my recent experiences of the unexpected passing of my best friend from first grade, a relationship of 38 years, followed by my divorce, after a 26-year relationship, to then be further amplified by the passing of my former husband shortly after the divorce, became pivotal points in my life. These events weren't just emotionally shattering; they became points of personal growth. Such experiences are not mere obstacles; they are transformative agents that redefine our competency levels. At this junction in life, age and accumulated experiences played a significant role. Having journeyed through the highs and lows, I realized that each experience, especially the most challenging ones, acts as a catalyst for personal and professional development. Life is an unpredictable journey that often leads us through unexpected turns, challenges, and transformative experiences. Understanding the four stages of competency is not just a theoretical concept but a practical framework that can guide us through various adversities and aid in personal growth.
The four stages of competency
1. Unconscious incompetence: Ignorance of ignorance
The first stage, unconscious incompetence, is akin to wandering in the dark. Here, we are unaware of the lacking skills or knowledge in a particular area. This stage signifies a lack of awareness, where we might not recognize the gaps in our understanding or abilities. Often, this stage is marked by a sense of ignorance about what we don't know.
2. Conscious incompetence: Awareness of ignorance
The awakening happens in the second stage, conscious incompetence. This is when we become aware of our lacking skills or knowledge. We realize there is much we don't know or understand, recognizing our inadequacies in dealing with a situation or challenge. It's a phase marked by a conscious recognition of our limitations.
3. Conscious competence: Learning and growth
The conscious competence stage is where the learning and growth happen. It's a phase where we actively seek knowledge, skills, and strategies to address the challenges we face. Through deliberate effort, practice, and learning, we acquire the necessary tools to navigate these challenges effectively. Here, we consciously apply and practice the newly acquired skills to address the issue at hand.
4. Unconscious competence: Mastery and integration
The final stage is unconscious competence, where the acquired skills become second nature. Mastery is achieved, and the application of these skills becomes almost automatic. It's a state where the knowledge or abilities are so ingrained that we can apply them effortlessly without conscious thought.
Teaching and growth from the four stages of competency
Understanding these stages offers valuable insights:
Awareness as a Stepping Stone: The realization of one's limitations is the first step toward growth. Recognizing our ignorance sets the stage for learning and development. It’s the cornerstone of personal development, so engage in mindfulness practices, self-reflection, and seek feedback. Acknowledge your strengths and weaknesses.
The Significance of Learning and Effort: Progressing from conscious incompetence to conscious competence requires deliberate effort, practice, and an openness to learning. It's a phase where we actively seek improvement, so stay curious and hungry for knowledge. Embrace new experiences, read diverse content, attend workshops, and seek mentors. Learning is a lifelong process.
Integration and Expertise: Unconscious competence is the culmination of mastery. It's the stage where skills become innate, integrated into our responses and actions without conscious thought. Don't be afraid to seek professional help or lean on a support network. Vulnerability isn’t a weakness; it’s a stepping stone to growth.
A Continuous Cycle of Growth: Life's challenges often prompt us to revisit these stages. Every new challenge presents an opportunity to learn, grow, and progress through the stages again. Embrace the inevitability of change. It’s challenging but crucial. Learning to adapt and grow from life’s unpredictable twists and build resilience enhances our ability to bounce back from adversity. Cultivate a resilient mindset by reframing negative thoughts, practicing gratitude, and developing a support network.
Ultimately, life's adversities are not roadblocks; they are the raw material for sculpting our competency levels. My journey through loss and heartache has not only taught me the importance of resilience but has illuminated the significance of the four stages of competency. While the pains linger, I've emerged stronger, more aware, and equipped with a deeper understanding of my competency levels. Age, experiences, and the will to push past obstacles are not barriers; they are the pathways towards our growth. By embracing self-awareness and continually working on personal development, one can navigate the stages of competency with greater resilience and strength, emerging not just as survivors but as thrivers in life's unpredictable journey.
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Beth Rohani, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Beth Rohani leads the 1 moving company serving the Houston Multi-Family Industry and her company is considered one of Top 3 Best Rated Moving Companies in Houston. As a first generation Iranian-American, former TV news assignments editor and CEO of a transportation and logistics based business in a male-dominated industry, Beth embraces the stereotypes while inspiring and mentoring others to build a successful business with a balance to live their best life.
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