Structure ‖ Model ‖ Formula
STRUCTURE: The Missing Key to Effortless Results
The reason most approaches (educational or otherwise) eventually fail isn't because they're "wrong," but because they're built on formulas instead of structure.
After 30 years of working with children and adults, witnessing countless seemingly-magical transformations, I've discovered that there's a fundamental difference between structure, models and formulas and understanding this difference is key.
While the world scrambles from one educational trend to the next, searching for the perfect formula that will finally "fix" learning challenges, the answer hides in plain sight (always!). It's not in the latest methodology or innovative program. It's in understanding how structure (real, living structure with flexibility built in) creates the foundation for all learning and success (naturally!)
This is how the 7 Seeds of Success was born - not another formula to follow but a structure based on human nature itself. It is timeless, universal, and as reliable as the seasons.
The problem is that so many people have become conditioned to using formulas ("If I just do this, then nobody can blame me for anything that goes wrong") and therefore outsourcing intelligence and, ultimately, preventing real results.
Hence my passion for converting people to structure (or its less-challenging cousin - the "model").
Unlike formulas that break down the moment conditions change, structure adapts and flows while maintaining its essential integrity.
Structure provides a skeleton on which to build - leaving space for the creation to take on the shape intended by the creator.
A curriculum was (I believe) originally intended to be a structure. However, it's rarely used this way. Many educators don't even realise that they are free to meet outcomes in any number of ways. Sadly, many fear getting in trouble with their superiors if they stray too far from the standard route.
I think that, with this perception of the word, moving away from "curriculum" and towards universal principles will take education another step closer to what it's meant to be. And provides a solution to all the "problems" which the current formulaic model has caused and is struggling with.
Fun Moment - with contemplation
This week, I wandered into a toy shop for the first time in years, looking for props for our upcoming family retreats. It was fun to explore, but I was struck by how 80% of the toys were formulaic, dictating exactly how kids should interact. No freedom for flow and creativity.
It’s a reminder of how much value there is in simple play and why true learning thrives on freedom within structure.
Unsurprising side-effect.
Student absenteeism is making headlines, but honestly, I’m not surprised. If schooling were a business, what is it doing to entice its end-users to return for repeat business? When the experience is formulaic and uninspiring, it’s no wonder students disengage.
If you're into reading articles about problems without offering solutions, you can find more here: What the Research Says Schools Should Do About Chronic Absenteeism
Tip:
Kids love to use their imagination: their brains are wired for it! Formulas kill that spark.
No wonder they don’t want to engage; they feel the death of the fun parts of themselves.
The key is to allow freedom within structures: let them choose an end result to head towards, and let them find their own way there (asking for guidance as needed along the way). The learning will happen regardless of what they choose. Stop acting from fear.
Trainings
I’ll be running another introduction to the "7 Seeds of Success" masterclass soon. Sign up for the email list to receive a free intro e-book and get updates about upcoming training sessions and family retreats. Sign up here
Upcoming Events
Online trainings are coming up soon, with family retreats and facilitator trainings to follow in May/June and October 2026.
Sign up to the email list for updates, first-in bonuses, and to be the first to know when registrations open. Stay in the loop here
Here's to Ease! (raising a glass or mug of something warm)
🌱 BeAta
