Michael Lee-Chin: learn the role model's recipe and follow it
When Richard interviewed Michael Lee-Chin, the conversation moved from values to a practical question: how do you learn a method that already works? Lee-Chin described a sequence for learning from a role model.
Choose the model carefully
Lee-Chin said he looks for the best role model in the field, asks how that person achieved the result, and follows the recipe. Richard picked up on the order. Lee-Chin emphasized following the recipe without changing it.
A framework for the next decision
Richard connected the recipe to a broader set of values and principles. In this exchange, a framework gives a person something to compare a decision against. The interview does not supply a universal recipe. It describes how Lee-Chin seeks one for the particular activity he wants to learn.
In Richard's words
"you can figure out a recipe for your industry or what you're trying to get done and then following that" (Richard C. Wilson, recorded library conversation)
How to use this
- Name the specific result you want to learn to produce.
- Separate the steps you observed from the changes you would like to make.
Questions and answers
Who offered the recipe idea?
Michael Lee-Chin explained it in his interview with Richard.
Did he recommend immediate experimentation?
His sequence was to identify the role model, learn the recipe, and follow it without changing it.