The Scientific Method
Picture it: a group of scientists in a lab, laser-focused on finding a cure. They think they’ve nailed it. They test the theory, hold their breath, and then… nothing. It doesn’t work.
“Well, that’s it. We tried. Clearly, we’re terrible at this. Pack it up, everyone—we’re done here.”
Said no scientist ever.
Scientists understand something vital: failure is part of the process. Not getting it right the first time (or the 116th) doesn’t mean defeat. It’s not a reflection of incompetence – it’s simply feedback. Another clue. A chance to refine the approach and try again.
This mindset is known as trial-and-error learning, introduced by psychologist Edward Lee Thorndike. His famous “cat in a puzzle box” experiment showed that learning from mistakes is essential to achieving success.
But let’s be real – applying this mindset outside a lab is much harder. In everyday life, objectivity can get hijacked by emotions, self-judgment, and fear. When something doesn’t work out, it’s easy to slip into a spiral of blame, shame, and defeat that shuts us down instead of pushing us forward.
I’ve noticed this happens most for me when I’m in a place of vulnerability – stepping into the unknown, taking risks, or stretching beyond my comfort zone. Like, say… starting a brand-new business in my late 50s.
When that familiar negative mind chatter kicks in, I’ve started to recognize it for what it is: an overzealous protection mechanism. My brain trying to shield me from failure, rejection, or embarrassment.
It’s well-intentioned – but it’s outdated. So I’ve given this inner committee a name: the Bogus Scientists (or BS, for short).
When my BS shows up, here’s what I do:
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Notice them: “Oh hey, BS. Fancy meeting you here.”
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Acknowledge them: “Thanks for trying to protect me.”
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Dismiss the fiction: “There’s no real evidence that what you’re saying is true. I’ve got this.”
Then, I grab my metaphorical scientist goggles and get curious. What can I learn from this experience? What’s the next small experiment I can run to move forward?
So today, I invite you to reflect on your own BS—the thoughts or voices that hold you back when things don’t go as planned.
Some days, managing them might feel harder than herding cats through a puzzle box. But with awareness, persistence, and maybe a little laughter, you can quiet the noise and keep experimenting.
Because the secret to success isn’t getting it right the first time – it’s having the courage to keep learning, keep trying, and keep moving forward.
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