MAJOR SETBACKS TO LEARNING AND ADVANCING

Objective
This session aims to identify factors that hinder workplace learning, productivity, and extraordinary performance, and to offer strategies to overcome them. By addressing these challenges, employees can foster a culture of excellence and contribute to nation-building through their work.

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Introduction
Consider how smoothly a car runs on a well-paved road with minimal friction—it moves faster and more efficiently. Now, imagine the car struggling against muddy terrain or mechanical faults. Just as friction slows a car, certain factors hinder workplace performance and advancement. Recognising and addressing these “frictions” can help employees achieve their full potential.

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Reflection Activity

• What factors slow a car from running at maximum speed?
  a. __________________________________________
  b. __________________________________________
  c. __________________________________________
  d. __________________________________________
  e. __________________________________________
• What are the forces that slow your performance at work?
  a. __________________________________________
  b. __________________________________________
  c. __________________________________________
  d. __________________________________________
  e. __________________________________________

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Common Setbacks in Workplace Learning and Productivity

1. Lack of Clear Goals
   • Without clear targets, employees may feel directionless, leading to decreased motivation and productivity.
2. Procrastination and Poor Time Management
   • Delaying tasks or mismanaging time can result in missed deadlines and reduced quality of work.
3. Resistance to Change
   • Fear of new technologies, processes, or organisational shifts can hinder growth and adaptation.
4. Poor Communication
   • Miscommunication or lack of feedback creates misunderstandings and impacts team collaboration.
5. Negative Attitude or Toxic Work Culture
   • A lack of positivity or a toxic environment drains enthusiasm and reduces engagement.
6. Skills Deficiency
   • Employees who lack the necessary training or knowledge struggle to perform effectively.

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Overcoming Setbacks

1. Set SMART Goals
   • Ensure goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
2. Prioritise Time Management
   • Use tools like to-do lists, time-blocking, or productivity apps to manage your schedule effectively.
3. Embrace Change and Lifelong Learning
   • View change as an opportunity for growth. Engage in continuous professional development to stay relevant.
4. Foster Positive Communication
   • Encourage open dialogue, regular feedback, and active listening to enhance team collaboration.
5. Build a Supportive Work Environment
   • Promote positivity, teamwork, and mutual respect to counteract negativity.
6. Upskill Regularly
   • Participate in workshops, certifications, or mentorship programmes to bridge skill gaps.

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Practical Activities and Exercises

1. Workplace Friction Mapping
   • Identify one “friction” in your work environment (e.g., procrastination, poor communication). Write down three actionable solutions to reduce or eliminate this obstacle.
2. Goal-Setting Workshop
   • Conduct a team exercise where each member writes one personal goal and one team goal. Share them and discuss how to align individual aspirations with organisational objectives.
3. Role-Playing for Communication
   • Practice role-playing scenarios where employees must resolve conflicts or clarify instructions, improving communication skills.
4. Time Management Challenge
   • Employees track their daily activities for a week and identify time-wasters. Create a plan to replace them with productive habits.
5. Resilience Training
   • Organise sessions on stress management and building emotional resilience to help employees overcome negativity and challenges.

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Link to Nation-Building

• A productive workforce is critical to national growth. By fostering learning, adaptability, and excellence in the workplace, employees contribute to a stronger economy and a more innovative society.

Call to Action

• Identify one obstacle that limits your performance and commit to addressing it today. Share your progress with a colleague or supervisor to stay accountable.

Conclusion
Setbacks in the workplace are inevitable, but they are not insurmountable. By identifying and addressing these challenges, employees can unlock their potential, foster a culture of excellence, and play a vital role in nation-building. What will you do today to overcome your workplace “frictions”?