Avoiding the Dunning-Kruger Trap in Lean: Lessons from Early Mistakes

The blog post

In this episode, Mark explores how the Dunning-Kruger effect shows up in Lean—especially after a first belt course, workshop, or book. Early enthusiasm can turn into overconfidence, creating blind spots and stalling growth.

Drawing from his book Practicing Lean, Mark shares stories (his own and from contributors like Paul Akers and Jamie Flinchbaugh) about mistakes made early on, what they taught us, and why Lean should be treated as a practice, not a project.

Key themes:

• Why certifications are a starting point, not the finish line

• How psychological safety helps keep overconfidence in check

• Lessons learned from early Lean missteps

• Practical tips for avoiding common training pitfalls

All royalties from Practicing Lean benefit the Louise H. Batz Patient Safety Foundation, supporting safer care for patients and families.