Why “Just-in-Time” Learning Falls Short
You’ve likely heard the advice before:
“Don’t hoard information. Learn just what you need, when you need it.”
In theory, it sounds smart. But for high-capacity leaders, “just-in-time” learning often turns into “never-in-action” knowledge. You save articles, bookmark podcasts, highlight books… only to move on without ever applying the insight.
That’s where the ABC System changes everything.
Instead of storing knowledge, we focus on how quickly we can assimilate what matters. We don’t just collect books and apps. We build habits around them, with a coach who helps us live them out in real time. It’s not about what you consume. It’s about what you activate.
And while the book Lean Learning has been making waves recently, I want to set the record straight.
Long before Lean Learning hit shelves, the ABC Coaching System at ToddMcKeever.com had already been applying the same principles. The book didn’t create this system. It validated what we’d already seen changing lives. We’re grateful for it, though, because if it helps more leaders apply these ideas around the world, that’s a win.
Turn Lean Learning into transformation?
Let’s walk through it.
A = Assimilate Fast (Not Just Learn Fast)
Lean Learning teaches that speed isn’t just about moving quickly. It’s about removing friction between the moment you learn something and the moment you act on it.
In the ABC System, that starts with tools like:
- Snipd and Evernote: You highlight insights from podcasts and immediately tag them for action.
- Apple Notes and Notability: You capture thoughts on the go, then bring them into your next coaching call.
Instead of filing everything away for “someday,” we ask right away:
“How does this apply to the way I lead this week?”
That one question shifts everything. You’re not just learning fast. You’re learning forward.
B = Book or Build Momentum
Once we find a helpful insight through a book, podcast, or app, we act on it. Lean Learning reminds us that learning only works when it builds motion.
This is where your coach becomes your multiplier.
At ToddMcKeever.com, we say it often:
“Books shift your mindset. Coaching shifts your behavior.”
Together, we use Lean ideas like:
- Do instead of discuss: You commit to one micro-action every week
- Quick feedback: You reflect on what worked, what didn’t, and what changed
- Minimum viable changes: You don’t build a full system. You change one part of your week, then stack progress from there
Apps like Trello and Apple Reminders help you track what matters most. Readwise resurfaces what you highlighted so it stays top of mind.
You don’t wait for the next free weekend to make a shift. You start with what you can control today.
C = Coach for Clarity and Course Correction
Lean Learning emphasizes the importance of feedback. Without it, learning stays theoretical. With it, learning becomes transformation.
Our ABC System was built with feedback at its core.
Every week, we create a rhythm:
- Monday Planning Sprints to clarify priorities
- Midweek reviews to keep you aligned
- Friday reflections to capture what’s working and why
These checkpoints keep you from drifting. Instead of collecting more information, you stay grounded in the mission you’re building.
Your coach is there to help you see your blind spots, adjust your tools, and make sure you’re still headed toward the impact that matters to you.
Why This Works When Other Systems Don’t
Most leadership systems give you a folder. We give you a framework.
Instead of helping you store more information, we help you transform what you already know into results that actually show up in your leadership.
Let’s compare the difference:
| What Most Do | What ABC Does |
| Take notes | Apply one note this week |
| Read books | Build action from one page |
| Join coaching | Customize real results |
| Download tools | Audit and align them weekly |
You don’t need more motivation. You need clear movement with guided support. That’s the shift.
Final Word: Learn Less, Apply More, Change Everything
If you’ve been stockpiling resources, signing up for courses, or highlighting every productivity book that comes your way, and still feel like something’s missing… you’re not alone.
The truth is, you’ve probably been taught to value information more than transformation.
It’s time to change that.
With the ABC Coaching System, you stop sitting on potential and start building the aligned, intentional life you know you’re capable of.
So next time you find something worth remembering—an app, a quote, a book—don’t just file it away.
Bring it to your next coaching session.
Turn it into a question.
Turn that question into action.
Turn that action into alignment.
That’s Lean Learning, the ABC way.
Want help building a leadership life that actually matches your values?
Start with our free 30-Day Leadership Planner or book a discovery call to design your own ABC System.