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Writer's pictureJP de la Rama

Learning through Imitation: 5 Tips on How to Learn by Emulation

I was worried if she was mumbling a different kind of chant

By reflecting on others' actions, we can refine our decision-making abilities, acquire invaluable experiences, and weave our distinctive perspective into our learning journey.


Earlier today, my family and I made a visit to the final resting place of my beloved mom and dad, who passed away 3 years ago. Their departure was almost simultaneous and was caused by complications of Covid-19. The pain and devastation of losing them in such a way was something none of us could have anticipated. Nevertheless, we are doing our best to carry on and live our lives to the fullest, cherishing our memories of them.



We gathered to pray during our time at the gravesite, and my 4-year-old daughter joined in. She is still too young to know the words of the novena or the prayer, so she just mumbled along, repeating the sounds she heard. As the prayers continued, I noticed that she gradually grasped the rhythm and structure of the prayer, and soon, she could echo the words of the prayer leader. Witnessing her ability to learn and adapt quickly, without formal instruction, was truly remarkable. It reminded me of how we unconsciously mimic and learn from those we admire, similar to how my daughter imitated the prayer.



Looking back on my elementary school years, I vividly remember the significant impact of my first encounter with a comic book. It left me in awe, and I tried to mimic every page and panel that fascinated me. Despite my lack of expertise, I enthusiastically created my staple-bound comic book, taking on the ambitious project of illustrating an epic battle: "X-Men: Return of The Juggernaut." The overwhelming sense of pride I felt was heightened by the unexpected approval of my usually hard-to-please parents. This pivotal moment was a revelation, igniting a deep desire to pursue a career as a comic book artist.



My first stapled comic: X-Men - The Return of Juggernaut
My first stapled comic: X-Men - The Return of Juggernaut


As time has passed, I've come to understand that I continue to learn and grow by observing and imitating various individuals. Whether in business, where I study successful entrepreneurs and emulate their strategies, or in my role as a project manager, where I observe effective leadership styles and try to incorporate them into my own approach, I've found that imitation can be a powerful tool for personal development.



As a father, I've learned by imitating positive parental role models and drawing inspiration from their nurturing techniques. Similarly, as a leader and teacher, I've consciously aimed to adopt commendable traits and practices from esteemed figures in these roles.



By mirroring others, I've honed my decision-making abilities and confidently navigated crucial moments. Through this process of imitation, I've gained valuable experiences that have significantly contributed to my personal growth and development. Through these experiences, I've learned to infuse my unique perspective into what I've learned, ultimately making them my own.



If you're looking to learn through imitation, consider the following in detail:


Choose the Right Mentor or Model:

When searching for a mentor or role model, it is crucial to exercise discernment. Strive to identify someone with exceptional expertise and knowledge and a solid track record of achievements and credibility within their domain. Dedicate ample time to thoroughly assessing their background, wealth of experience, and notable accomplishments to ascertain their suitability to guide you towards your learning and development objectives.


Observe and Analyze:

When observing someone, it's crucial to pay close attention to the minute details that make up their technique or approach. Take the time to meticulously analyze each action, breaking down every step into smaller, more digestible parts. This will help you understand the entire process comprehensively and profoundly.


Practice Diligently:

By consistently and repetitively practicing the skills you aim to master, you will effectively develop muscle memory and expertise. Begin by tackling simpler tasks and gradually transition to more intricate ones as you make progress. This methodical approach to learning will empower you to refine your skills continuously and expand your knowledge.


Seek Feedback and Reflect:

To progress in both personal and professional development, it's crucial to actively seek constructive criticism from your mentor or other trusted individuals. This feedback will prove invaluable in identifying specific areas where improvement and growth are possible. Regular self-reflection will allow you to thoroughly assess your progress, reflect on the knowledge and skills you have acquired, and make any necessary adjustments to continue moving forward.


Engage Actively and Adapt:

As you embark on learning new skills, it is crucial to immerse yourself fully in the process. This means actively asking questions, seeking clarification, and participating in the learning journey. It's not enough to simply watch and observe – you must take an active role and put the techniques into practice. Additionally, be receptive to customizing these techniques to align with your style and the specific situations in which you plan to apply them. Embracing flexibility in using these skills will empower you to personalize them and yield enhanced outcomes.


Learning through imitation involves carefully selecting a mentor or role model, closely observing and analyzing their techniques, practicing diligently, seeking feedback, reflecting on progress, and actively engaging while adapting learned skills to fit one's unique style. Following these steps can effectively enhance one's skills and knowledge for personal and professional development.




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