ICYMI: Ideas into Action – TIPSS Revisited (3 Min Read) | Vol. 138

February  14, 2025

“Curiosity is the beginning of knowledge. Action is the beginning of change.” – James Clear

ICYMI: Ideas into Action – TIPSS Revisited

Next week is our annual convention, so I’m revisiting one of our most popular posts on how to get the most out of a training event. Happy Valentine’s Day learning lovers!

Early in my career, I attended a conference where a trainer introduced me to “convention letdown.” The presenter pointed out that people invest time and money in training but rarely do anything with the knowledge. They have fun, feel inspired, and connect with colleagues. They take notes but don’t take action. They fail to get a return on the conference. 

To avoid convention letdown, I’m sharing the framework I use called “TIPSS.” It’s a great way to bridge the gap between ideas and action.

Step 1 – Take Notes

Taking notes increases retention. It’s the easiest way to shift from passive to active learning. People take notes in lots of ways. Many adult learners take notes on their phones. They type into a notes app, snap photos of the slides, or some combination of the two. Others take notes on laptops or tablets. Research shows neither approach is ideal. Handwritten notetaking appears to work best. It’s not just about avoiding all the distractions electronic devices provide. Taking notes by hand forces us to synthesize and summarize the material. Our brains engage in a different, better way, and we learn more.

Step 2 – Identify Key Takeaways

Create a simple system for highlighting key learnings in real time. You can’t implement it all. And we rarely have the time to sift through our notes after the fact. So identify your takeaways as you go.

One simple approach is to add stars in the margins. You can also create hashtags for different kinds of takeaways. Maybe #M for marketing ideas or #T for tech tips. If you have a team and plan to delegate, you might use the team member’s initials.

Step 3 – Prioritize Action Items

After the class or event, set aside a few minutes to consolidate key takeaways in a separate document. You should do this right away. I enjoy creating my priority list on the plane ride home. Few distractions and free snacks.

Next, turn your to-do list into a success list like we teach in The ONE Thing. Of all the things you “could do,” identify the few you “should do.” I ask myself this simple question: “If I could only implement one item on this list, which one would I choose?” The answer becomes my #1. I then ask, “If after doing #1, I could do one more, which would I choose?” That becomes my #2. Repeat. Usually, your long list will be reduced to a handful of truly important items. This process can be quite therapeutic if long to-do lists stress you out.

Step 4 – Schedule Your #1 Priority

As quickly as possible, open up your calendar and time block your top priority. You don’t have to complete the first item, just get started. In my experience, 99% of procrastination is washed away by 1% of progress. It’s far easier to finish something than it is to start it.

Step 5 – Seek Accountability

Whenever possible, seek accountability for your follow-up items. At your next team meeting, invite team members to share their #1 commitment and share your own. Make a note to follow up at the next meeting. Give your success list to your coach and invite them to check in on your progress. We’re all adults here. We don’t have parents to turn off the Wi-Fi and make us do our homework. While no one can hold you accountable, you can choose to be accountable to your goals. 

Ideally, you’ll go into every learning event with your own learning objectives. If you go in with clear intentions, everything about TIPSS is easier. You can focus on sessions that align with your needs. You’re actively listening for tips and tools that further those goals. Learning objectives streamline the process.

One question to ponder in your thinking time: How can I make the most of my next learning event? 

Make an Impact!
Jay Papasan
Co-author of The ONE Thing & The Millionaire Real Estate Agent