In this post, we’ll unpack all you need to know about pattern recognition, defining exactly what it is, its role in evolution, how to leverage it for success and more.
What Is Pattern Recognition?
Pattern recognition (PR) is the cognitive ability to identify cause-effect relationships in order to make predictions.
The Evolutionary Perspective
From an evolutionary perspective, humans evolved to recognise patterns as it allowed them to predict outcomes. This allowed them to better adapt to their environment which ultimately enhanced their ability to survive and reproduce.
In short, we are the descendants of those who could successfully identify patterns.
Evolution is awareness. Awareness is learning. Learning is pattern recognition. Pattern recognition is meaning.
Pattern Recognition, Pattern Utilisation & Pattern Optimisation
Pattern recognition refers to the act of identifying patterns in order to inform decision-making. Pattern utilisation refers to the act of applying patterns in order to test decision-making. Pattern optimisation refers to the act of refining patterns to in order to improve decision-making.
How To Leverage It For Success
Success ultimately comes down to being able to predict outcomes.
For example, consider the pivotal moment in history when humans identified the four seasons. Without the awareness of the four seasons, humans couldn’t predict changes in the climate and so couldn’t optimise planting and harvesting schedules. With the awareness of the four seasons, humans could predict changes in the climate and so could optimise planting and harvesting schedules.
Therefore, the key to leveraging pattern recognition is to continuously update your Model Of The World based on new and existing patterns.
The more broad and accurate your Model Of The World, the better you will be able to predict outcomes. The better you can predict outcomes, the more effective decisions you can make. The more effective decisions you can make, the more effective your results will be.
Summary (TL;DR)
Pattern recognition is the cognitive ability to identify cause-effect relationships in order to make predictions.
PR evolved as an adaptation as it allowed humans to predict outcomes which ultimately enhanced their ability to survive and reproduce.
The key to leveraging PR is to continuously update your Model Of The World based on new and existing patterns. The more diverse and accurate your Model Of The World, the better you will be able to predict outcomes, the more effective decisions you’ll make and the more effective your results will be.
