MINDSETMonths to result

The J Curve Framework

Understand the trajectory of change

Problem it solves

motivation and change

Best for

Individuals struggling with motivation and change

Not ideal for

Those who prefer quick fixes

Overview

Why this framework exists

This framework involves understanding the trajectory of change, which often involves a decline in well-being before an eventual increase. It encourages individuals to commit to working on a new skill or behavior for a specific amount of time, past the initial challenging stage.

Core principles

3 total
  1. Change often involves a decline in well-being before an eventual increase
  2. Commit to working on a new skill or behavior for a specific amount of time
  3. Focus on the process, not the outcome, to increase motivation

Steps

2 steps
  1. Understand the J Curve
    Understand the trajectory of change, which often involves a decline in well-being before an eventual increase.
    Pro tipVisualize the J Curve to better understand the process
    WarningBe aware of the tendency to give up during the initial decline
  2. Commit to the process
    Commit to working on a new skill or behavior for a specific amount of time, past the initial challenging stage.
    Pro tipSet a specific goal and timeline for the commitment
    WarningBe patient and persistent in the face of setbacks

Checklist

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Examples

1 cases
Bernardus' customer tracking system

Bernardus struggled to adopt a new customer tracking system but eventually found it to be effective

OutcomeIncreased effectiveness and reduced resistance to change

Common mistakes

2 traps
Giving up during the initial decline
Failing to commit to the process and giving up during the initial decline
Not understanding the J Curve
Failing to understand the trajectory of change and the potential decline in well-being

Origin story

How this framework came to be

The framework is illustrated through the story of Bernardus, who struggled to adopt a new customer tracking system but eventually found it to be effective.

Source

Traced to primary
Source · BOOK
Thanks for the Feedback: The Science and Art of Receiving Feedback Well
Douglas Stone · 2014
Open source →

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