Let's be honest. How many browser tabs do you have open right now? What about that folder of bookmarked articles you swear you'll read one day?
We are all information hoarders. We collect articles, videos, and podcasts on a "just-in-case" basis. We tell ourselves this knowledge might be useful someday. This is the final defence of the "Knowledge Collector" mindset. It feels responsible, but it's actually one of the biggest roadblocks to our growth.
To finally break free and step onto the "Creation Spiral", we need to embrace a new way of thinking: "Just-in-Time" learning.
"Just-in-Case" vs "Just-in-Time"
Let's define the two approaches.
"Just-in-Case" Learning (The Hoarder's Method)
This is the default mode for most of us. It's the act of gathering information without an immediate need for it.
"I should probably learn about AI, it seems important."
"This article on marketing looks interesting, I'll save it for later."
"I'll buy this course on video editing so I have it when I need it."
The result is a massive library of information that you forget almost as fast as you consume it. It leads to overwhelm and paralysis.
"Just-in-Time" Learning (The Builder's Method)
This is the opposite. It's the act of seeking specific information to solve an immediate problem or complete a specific task.
"My project needs a logo. I will learn the basics of using Canva to make one right now."
"I need to write a sales email. I will find one good example and use it as a template."
"I can't figure out this bit of code. I will search for the answer to this specific error message."
The result is focused action and knowledge that sticks because you use it immediately.
How to Make the Switch
Switching from "Just-in-Case" to "Just-in-Time" requires a conscious shift in how you approach learning.
Start with a Project, Not a Topic. This is the most important rule. Don't say, "I want to learn about marketing." Instead, say, "I want to get my first 10 email subscribers." The project dictates the learning. It gives you a reason to learn and a filter for what's important.
Use the "What's My Next Step?" Filter. Before you read an article or watch a video, ask yourself: "Will this help me complete the very next step of my project?" If the answer is no, ruthlessly ignore it for now.
Learn Just Enough to Act. You don't need to become a world expert to move forward. You just need to learn enough to complete the task in front of you. Need to edit a photo? Learn how the cropping tool works. You can learn about advanced colour grading later, when you actually need it.
From Librarian to Mechanic
Think of it like this. A "Just-in-Case" learner is like a librarian who spends all their time collecting and organising books, but never reads them. A "Just-in-Time" learner is like a mechanic who has a problem with an engine, walks over to the toolbox, and grabs the one specific wrench they need to fix it.
Be the mechanic. Let your projects pull the knowledge you need, when you need it. This is the final key to unlocking the mindset of a Skill Builder.
And with that, we've laid the foundation. We've defined the problem, understood the science, and tackled the emotional and practical barriers to getting started. We have our new mindset.
Now, it's time to build.
In the next series of articles, we will move from mindset to method. We'll dive into the second pillar: The Process & Frameworks.
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