As the saying goes, “A rolling stone gathers no moss”. One interpretation of this old proverb equates moss to stagnation; meaning those who keep moving are never lacking for fresh ideas or creativity.
The same holds true for movement. If one is constantly elaborating on their movement (trying new methods, seeking improvement), then stagnation and plateaus can be held at bay.
But just like Albert Einstein’s quote that says “The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, but expecting different results”, it’s crucial not to fall into the trap of thinking “I just have to try harder”. Look deeper than that – inspect, and pick apart each aspect of the movement you’re having trouble with. Take a video of yourself so you can more accurately identify what the problem is. Have someone else take a look at the issue and try and identify the root cause (a second pair of eyes can sometimes spot things that one can’t). Just because you can’t do something doesn’t mean it’s because you aren’t strong enough or not capable. There’s a good chance it’s because the way you’re trying to do it, or the method of your movement isn’t the most efficient. Even if it is a strength issue, by breaking down the movement and analyzing the specific issue holding you back, it becomes possible to target the exact part of the musculature that might be failing you.
Growth depends on two things – the willingness to experiment, and the willingness to fail. It’s within these two things that we can evolve and become better. By experimenting, we’re trying new things, making sure that the stone is still rolling. By failing, we’re giving ourselves clues to redirect our efforts in a different direction, opening our minds to new knowledge or information, and learning how to create different results.
So the next time you’re stuck, analyze what you’re doing, and change something up. Don’t fall into the mindless repetition of trying the same thing over and over.
