This post series will be reflections on items that I have learned from my journey in self awareness and following some of the most dynamic leaders in the realm of personal development. While I like to consider myself somewhat of a maverick, or a rebel chick of personal development, there are some traits that the majority of thought leaders do and they see great results. It has been a learning curve to decide which are things I need to learn and in turn do, and which things I can pass by. But I am a believer in learning from those at least 10 steps ahead of me and to not reinvent the wheel. I choose to learn from their experience.
One common trait among leaders (in any industry!) is that they pledge themselves to continuous learning. It is easy enough to say that you believe in continuous learning, but what do you DO to support continuous learning? Are you engaged, or going through the motions?
What’s the Big Deal?
As we open ourselves to learning we remain open to new opportunities. Think about it. We almost always have someone we know that doesn’t really read much, or watch much, or have a hobby. Would you characterize them as always expanding? Most likely not.
Through opening ourselves up to learning we must allow at least a smidge of vulnerability in. We must take a stance that we don’t know everything, even if it is on one small topic. Some do not want to admit such a thing! But by permitting this openness we can be filled with more knowledge, more understanding, and eventually more awareness. Learning enables us to widen our horizons.
Another great benefit is that as we learn, we can share more with those around us. We can contribute and deepen the interaction with people in our lives. These people may stay for a while, or they may be passing through our lives quickly, but we can leave a more indelible impression that they can take and in turn, learn from.
Advice: In the last episode of this series I wrote about reading more. That is one form of continuous learning. Here are some other ideas:
- Webinars/TeleSummits: There are so many options out there, across many industries that are offered for free! And they are usually 60-90 minutes long. Often you can sign up for the event and get a replay link if you can’t make the “live” airing. You will need to wade through quality issues sometimes – but stick with it. Soon you will find people who deliver fantastic high value content time and time again. Some of my favorites are Lisa Nichols, Jack Canfield, Brendon Buchard and Jeff Walker. (Note that some of these folks actually offer free video series, instead of or in addition to a one time webinar.)
- Conferences: Often the thought of going to a conference immediately causes dollar signs to shoot out of our ears. I know, I’ve been there and I’ve had to really counter that conditioning. Often the question becomes not can I afford to go, but can I afford NOT to go.
Lynn at Speak & Write 2013.
I went to a conference earlier this year given by Lisa Nichols and her remarkable team. I was astounded at the difference between attending something live (mind you I attended alone, without a friend to sit with) and attending an event via video from home. Did it push me out of my comfort zone – YES! Was it an amazing experience – YES! Will I take this experience and the things I learned and carry them for a lifetime – YES! The live atmosphere is electrifying and I made wonderful contacts that will continue to bring great value and opportunity to my business. I was able to get different perspectives from people immediately on concepts and ideas that were being presented, and I was able to test my ideas with others and receive immediate feedback.
Another option to help lessen the cost factor is to bring a friend with you. Even if they are not attending the conference, you can still split costs, such as hotel. And make it a mini-vacation. You are already there, so add a day or two and explore, especially if it is somewhere you have never visited.
- Courses: Whether at the local community college, or an at-home or online course, expand your learning. Often there are very affordable local options for learning anything from social media to Excel to wine tasting.
- Groups: There are often local groups that meet surrounding a distinct topic. One only has to explore sites such as Meetup.com to find something in their area that is drawing people together with common interests. There are also online groups that create virtual communities where people can share insights and learn about a common topic.
Whatever the form you take, try to find something that grows your knowledge base and if you are feeling a little adventurous, pushes you ever so slightly out of your comfort zone. You will be amazed at the things you will learn, as well as the insights you will gain about yourself. And keep the learning going!
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