Corporate training myths graph diagram Focus Learning Solutions

Corporate Training Myths Busted: Why We Question “Zombie” Theories (Maslow & More)

I run a training and consulting company based in Malaysia, and lately, I have been obsessing over the most common corporate training myths. As one of the principal trainers at Focus Learning Solutions, I’ve spent my fair share of time facilitating programs and advising teams across different industries.

Over time, I started noticing a pattern. A disturbing one.

We keep seeing the same models, frameworks, and theories again and again… plastered on slides and repeated in workshops. Many of these are just outdated corporate training myths disguised as best practices.

And to be honest? It’s starting to feel a little… overdone.

Why We Are Busting These Corporate Training Myths

So I thought, why not do something different? Instead of regurgitating these well-worn ideas, maybe it’s time to poke at them. We need to stop accepting these corporate training myths blindly.

At FLS, we ask the hard questions that other consultants might avoid:

  • 🔴 Are they still relevant in 2026?
  • 🔴 Do they hold up to modern research?
  • 🔴 Or have they survived just because they look good on PowerPoint?

The Problem with “Zombie” Theories

Why do I call them “Zombie” theories? Because they refuse to die. This is arguably the most dangerous of all corporate training myths: the belief that “old” means “reliable”.

Take a look at any standard HR slide deck. You will see pyramids and quadrants. They promise that if you categorize your team into 4 colors, you will solve all your problems.

But human behavior is messy. Leadership is complex.

Who am I to question these established theories? Just a lifelong learner, a practitioner, and someone with a bit of a contrarian streak.

Read Our “Myth-Busting” Series

If you are tired of falling for these corporate training myths and want real results, this series is for you. Check out our deep dives below:

1. The Pyramid Scheme

Is Maslow’s Hierarchy actually true? We explore why some people find happiness without safety.
👉 Read: Is Maslow Wrong? The “Craig” Story


2. The Personality Trap

Are you really just a “Peacock” or an “Owl”? Why putting people in boxes kills potential.
👉 Read: Why Personality Tests Fail & How to Use Them Right

For a broader perspective on evidence-based management, check out the resources from the Center for Evidence-Based Management.

Stay tuned to the Focus Learning Solutions Blog. We are committed to moving beyond “nice slides” to bring you “real results.”


ملخص: لماذا نشكك في النظريات الشهيرة؟

مانيفستو Focus Learning Solutions:

نحن نلاحظ تكرار نفس النظريات القديمة في كل تدريب مؤسسي. شرائح العرض مليئة بالأهرامات والمربعات الملونة التي تبدو جميلة ولكنها قد تكون: مبالغ فيها، مُساء فهمها، أو عفا عليها الزمن.

  • ليس تقليلاً من شأن المبدعين، بل لنرى الأمور بعيون جديدة.
  • هل ما زالت هذه النظريات صالحة في 2026؟ أم أنها بقيت فقط لأنها سهلة التدريس؟

Ringkasan: Menggugat Mitos Pelatihan Korporat

Sebagai praktisi, kami bosan melihat teori yang sama diulang-ulang selama puluhan tahun di ruang training. Piramida, kuadran, dan label yang itu-itu saja.

Filosofi Baru FLS:

  • Berhenti Copy-Paste: Kami menantang teori lama (seperti Maslow atau DISC). Apakah masih relevan di tahun 2026?
  • Kritis & Realistis: Banyak model bertahan hanya karena “kelihatannya bagus di PowerPoint”, bukan karena terbukti berhasil di lapangan.
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