Everything with one arm
I was unable to work for seven weeks, which took some getting used to. From one day to the next, I could hardly move my dominant arm, and wasn't allowed to either. That lasted for six weeks. Suddenly, I had to do everything with my left hand, which meant getting creative at home. I learned how to put on a shirt with one hand, brush my teeth left-handed, and zip up a jacket. I also learned to ask for help more often, because I quickly realized that I could no longer do everything by myself (just try opening a jar of jam with one hand...).
Learning again, step by step
Once I was finally allowed to remove my sling after six weeks, there was hardly any strength left in my arm. The muscles had been inactive for weeks and had shrunk significantly as a result. I was confronted with the fact that everyday tasks I once performed automatically no longer came naturally.
In practice, this meant relearning routine activities that I used to do without a second thought. It was important not to rely blindly on how I had performed these actions before surgery. Instead, I had to assess each time what I could and could not do, move more slowly and carefully, and sometimes use different movements than usual to get things done.
Small steps and lots of practice proved very effective. The guidance of my physiotherapist also helped me avoid pushing myself too hard. I learned that successful rehabilitation is not about speed, but about taking the time to perform exercises and activities correctly.
Experience is not always enough
Something similar happens in the workplace when employees need to learn new systems, processes, or roles. People often draw on previous experience to get started quickly. Unfortunately, that is not always the best way to achieve the desired outcome.
Relying on prior knowledge can become a pitfall when processes are not followed correctly, supporting documentation is ignored, or help is not requested when needed. The challenge for organizations is to provide the right training and supporting knowledge resources that guide employees at the right moment and reduce the tendency to act solely based on experience and assumptions.
The right support at the right time
For many organizations, setting this up effectively can be a challenge. Eluxis helps organizations develop suitable learning solutions, onboarding programs, and practical work instructions that guide employees step by step toward competence and independence.
Curious about what we can do for your organization? Feel free to get in touch.
Kind regards,
Floor Stefess
floor.stefess@eluxis.com
LinkedIn: Floor Stefess
