No lecture has had a more profound impact on my adulthood than the late Randy Pausch's "Last Lecture" which was delivered back in 2007. In it, one of the concepts he talked about which has stuck with me is the idea of the 'head fake.'
These 'head fake' situations, which someone believes that they are learning about one thing that's fun or passive, are really learning about something more meaningful and useful.
For example, when parents put their children into sports, they learn how to perform the activity, but what they're really learning is "teamwork, perseverance, sportsmanship, the value of hard work, [and] an ability to deal with adversity."
One of the ongoing programs that we run in Flavor Camp is a digital Cocktail Challenge each month that focuses on one category of spirit (for example right now in April, we're focused on Tequila).
On the surface, the premise is simple: Interested community members can throw together a recipe of alcohol, juices, syrups, and sodas to submit for a chance to win prizes.
But beyond that, this seemingly straight forward activity is designed for a number of hidden objective to get community members to learn something deeper:
1. It Fosters 'Safe' Creativity
This is an opportunity for adults to be mischievous and use multiple senses to experiment, fail, and problem solve in the comfort of their own home. There, they are able to safely generate a solution using creative thinking and playful mindset.
2. It Teaches Restraint
In a world of excess, being able to refine down and exercise restraint (whether it be in cocktails, cooking, or just life) is an excellent practice of intentionality. For our cocktail challenges, people can only use up to 6 ingredients that are ubiquitous to create something new. Creating excellence out of common ingredients by using restraint is an incredible skill to develop.
3. It Motivates Persistence & Practice
The more practice people have, the better they will become at something. This challenge develops people's intuition and palate in the comfort of their own home.
4. It Facilitates Legacy Building
Is there anything better than having something that you created with your name attached to it, out there in the world that others can admire, experience, and enjoy?! Sure it's 'just' a cocktail, but it's also a point of connection, conversation, and multi-sensory experience to be shared.
While these learnings are a great way to develop the community, the ultimate head fake is that creates an environment that builds brand loyalty for the business.
So tell me, do you use 'head fakes' in your business?
Marketing support for trades-based businesses in Canada and the US
2wdone - and some great-looking concepts in there.