Tuesday, September 10, 2013

30 Days of Squat! (Day 10) - Growth vs. Development

Growth and development are not the same thing. Neither is necessary for the other. A rubbish heap can grow but it doesn't develop. Artists can develop without growing. 
...To grow is to increase in size or number. 
...Development is an increase in capability and competence. 
(Ackoff's Best, Russell Ackoff, pp. 44-45)
The problem with most programs is that little attention is paid to the bigger picture. Yes, sometimes we need laser focus, and "SMART" (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound) goals are, indeed, smart goals, but only if done thoughtfully.

If your goal is to add 100 pounds to your squat by Christmas, it may fit the "SMART" criteria, but is it smart? Maybe. Maybe not. If you end up shaving depth, sacrificing technique, and going into credit card debt from supplements, training equipment, gear, chiropractic adjustments, and massages just to hold yourself together, then it might not be smart.

Remember, there's growth, and then there's development.

Related Squat Rx Posts:
Lessons from DUNE (Part I)
Quantitative vs. Qualitative Change

No comments: