You may remember over the past few years I have been dipping my toe or ski into snow skiing. It made me reflect on learning a new skill as an adult, which can be both exciting but daunting and even intimidating. There are a number of psychological factors that play a significant role in how adults acquire new abilities. So I wanted to share some of these points to maybe help you approach learning with greater confidence and resilience.
Overcoming Psychological Barriers
One of the greatest challenges I faced on the slopes was managing fear and self-doubt. As adults, we are acutely aware of the risks associated with new activities, which can trigger anxiety and hesitation. This heightened self-awareness often leads to cautious, rigid movements that can hinder progress and even increase the chance of mistakes. I was fortunate enough to have a ski instructor in the group and was skiing in front of me, he was watching my movements and all of a sudden asked me if I was breathing, I quickly realised I was holding my breath. This made me laugh out loud, as for over 15 years I have practiced yoga and then for the last 10 years in the therapy room, I frequently call on breathing skills to help the people I am working with, so the fact I forget something that is so integral to other areas of my life really made me chuckle.
Growth Mindset
Embracing a growth mindset, although this may feel like a ‘pop psychology’ phrase. There really is growth that come if you hold the belief that skills can be developed through effort and persistence. I must admit I did rely on others for a pep talk and found it endearing that the others in my ski group continued to cheer each other on. This helped to see the challenges as opportunities rather than threats which in turn fosters resilience. Applying this mindset allowed me to see the mistakes as part of the learning process rather than signs of failure.
Self-Efficacy
According to Bandura’s theory of self-efficacy, believing in one’s ability to succeed influences motivation and performance. Although I joked that I was going to enter the winter Olympics as a ski jumper, I reigned it in and looked at what were the small and realistic goals I should achieve, such as mastering a basic turn, navigating a gentle slope or being able to snow-plow. This helped me build to confidence and maintain momentum.
Neuropsychology of Skill Acquisition
Learning a new skills involves engaging both your body and mind. As adults, our brains maintain neuroplasticity, the ability to form and reorganise neural connections, though it operates differently than in childhood.
Procedural Memory and Muscle Memory
Repetition was key. Whatever you are learning do it again and again and again. Skiing required me to develop procedural memory, where physical actions become automatic over time.
Motor Learning and Coordination
I noticed that I often overanalysed my movements, relying on explicit learning strategies. In contrast, children tend to learn through implicit, instinctive methods. I could see this when I saw the little ones shooting around me on the slopes. As adults, to overcome this, we need to practice drills or the skills that focused on balance and rhythm, helping you shift from conscious thought to automatic movement.
Managing Cognitive Load
Processing new information while managing physical actions can overwhelm the adult brain. So breaking complex skills into smaller, more manageable steps helps you stay focused and reduce mental fatigue.
Practical Strategies for learning a new skill as an adult
- Start with Guidance: Taking lessons, online classes or following tutorials provided structured learning, easing anxiety and (hopefully) preventing bad habits.
- Set Achievable Goals: Celebrating every small victories will help to keep you motivated and built self-confidence.
- Practice Mindfulness: Staying present with your new skill. Deep breathing and mindfulness helps to focus on the moment rather than worrying about potential mistakes.
- Visualisation Techniques: Mentally rehearsing movements or your new skill can prime your brain for physical execution, reinforcing learning.
Embracing the Journey
Learning to ski as an adult taught me far more than how to navigate snowy slopes. It was a journey of personal growth, resilience, and overcoming fear—lessons that apply to any new skill we pursue. By understanding the psychological and neuropsychological foundations of learning, we can approach new challenges with curiosity and confidence, turning each experience into a fulfilling and empowering adventure.