A crucial part of learning how to learn is becoming acutely aware of the obstacles that block our path to excellence.

Here we look at three dysfunctional characters – the Dabbler, the Hack, and the Obsessive. These are the three learner profiles you want to avoid. Together they’ll give you a spookily accurate assessment of how you prevent yourself reaching true competence and expertise.

And in my article "Learning How To Learn + Skill Up: The Four Learner Types", we expand on these three learner types and look at the gold-standard learner: The Master. This character avoids all the learning pitfalls and ultimately prevails.

You can use the exemplary archetype as a template for improvement in any area of your life, from your relationships, hobbies and career, to your overall approach to life.

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