Ditch the overwhelm—discover how learning only what you need, when you need it, can boost your focus and free your mind.

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Why Do We Keep Bookmarking Recipes We’ll Never Cook?

Some time back, while aimlessly strolling through the internet (or was it my 23rd newsletter subscription?), I stumbled upon the concept of just in time learning—and it hit me like hot chai on a cold evening. It made so much sense.

I’m not going to pretend I’ve fully embraced it. I still find myself distracted—saving articles I’ll probably never read, opening 10 tabs in one sitting, or signing up for yet another free course because the title sounded convincing. But slowly, I’m learning to pause and ask myself, “Do I need this right now?”

It’s a practice, not perfection. But even the few times I’ve applied it, the clarity and calm it brings are undeniable.

In this article, I want to explore the benefits of just in time learning—and maybe, just maybe, bring you along on this journey of trying to be a more productive human.

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What Is Just in Time Learning?

The term is inspired by Toyota’s manufacturing model where raw materials arrive only when needed—not a moment too soon, not a moment too late. The idea? Minimize waste. Maximize efficiency.

Now apply that to your brain.

Just in time learning means you only seek knowledge right when you need it. Not months before. Not “just in case.” But just in time.

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It Increases Focus and Cuts Down Distractions

If your brain is anything like mine, it gets excited very easily. A video on productivity leads to an article on deep work, which leads to a podcast on morning routines, which—suddenly—leads you to reorganizing your entire Google Drive.

Sound familiar?

Just in time learning introduces guardrails. You only learn when it’s needed, so you’re not seduced into rabbit holes. Need to write a proposal? Look up how to structure one. Need to give feedback? Read about effective communication styles. That’s it.

You’ll be amazed at how sharp your focus becomes when learning has an immediate purpose.

Action Step:

Before you start researching something, pause and ask: “Do I need this information right now for a task or decision?” If not, skip it.

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It Reduces Overwhelm

Let’s face it: trying to learn everything all at once is exhausting. As a coach and project leader, I do fall into the trap of prepping for every possible situation. It was like mental insurance.

But the truth is, we don’t need to know it all.

Just in time learning gives us permission to let go. We are not being lazy. We are being strategic. And when not cramming the mind with “someday-maybe” knowledge, we will create space for clarity.

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It Increases Retention and Confidence

Because you’re learning something with a clear need, you’re more likely to remember and apply it.

Think back to school. Remember how you memorized topics for exams and forgot them right after? Now think about learning how to use a budgeting app when you’re trying to save money—that knowledge sticks, right?

That’s because urgency and relevance are powerful teachers.

Action Step:

Whenever you learn something new, use it immediately—even in a small way. That might mean applying a tip in your next meeting or writing a summary of what you just learned.

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It Makes You a More Present, Curious Listener

This one surprised me the most.

There are times I walk into a room where everyone’s talking about a topic I know absolutely nothing about—AI, cryptocurrency… or parenting (zero experience there). And instead of nodding blankly or trying to fake expertise, I’ve started to saying something like:

“I don’t know much about that, but it sounds interesting. How have you been applying it?”

That one line opens up deeper conversations. People love sharing what they know. And suddenly, you’re learning in context—not from a dry article but from someone’s real-life experience. And isn’t that richer?

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But… Are There Downsides?

Sure, like any tool, just in time learning has its pitfalls. If you wait too long to learn something essential, it might catch you off guard. For example, if you ignore basic financial literacy until you’re in debt, that’s a tough place to start from.

So the key is to balance it. Don’t use JIT as an excuse to avoid preparation. Use it to avoid panic-learning and information overload.

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Final Thoughts: Just in Time, Not Just in Case

Let me leave you with this: You don’t need to know everything. You need to know what matters right now.

That’s the heart of just in time learning. It’s about trusting that when the moment comes, you’ll rise to meet it—with the right tools, support, and mindset.

So the next time you find yourself knee-deep in yet another tutorial, stop and ask:

“Is this the knowledge I need for the step I’m about to take?”

If yes, go ahead and dive in. If not, bookmark it and move on. Your future self will thank you.

Your Turn:

Try just in time learning for one week. Tackle your current to-dos, and only learn what’s necessary for them. Notice what changes in your energy, confidence, and time.

Let me know how it goes. I’d love to hear what you discover.

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