Ways to do it – Numero Uno

There is one thing which I have learnt the hard way in life. Ok, maybe for the first 25 years in life, but nonetheless learnt it the hard way – Education.

Education in my books does not necessarily mean going to school, hitting the books, or getting a masters degree. Education means asking questions, observing, and taking note of what happens around you. Over the last 5 years, I have learnt that listening to what people say, watching how they do things, and raising your hand when asked “any further questions?” is the best way of learning.

Far too often, people wonder – “Is my question stupid? Will the others smirk at me because I may not have understood something? Why didn’t I get it, and the others did?”. Here’s a newsflash – the way you progress and become someone depends on the actions you take. As humans, each one is programmed in a unique manner, and very rarely are any two people alike. So when you have an opportunity to learn in any shape of form, you HAVE to go for it. So what if your question was stupid? Perhaps you will understand a concept better because you had an embarrassing situation to learn from – that in my eyes is worth more than conforming to the norm. From personal experience, I have been called annoying, over inquisitive, and have pushed one too many buttons at the wrong times. The fact remains though – I have learnt more by asking the stupid questions rather than the uber intelligent ones.

Education does not stop there either. I am a huge advocate of gaining skills through training and personal development. It does not hurt to pick a book, and add those qualifications against your name – your employer will look at it as a sign that you are developing yourself, and are keen to progress.

Finally, the best way to be a surefire asset to your organization is to live and breath your job during those hours of 9-5. What I mean by that, is to take interest and learn the ins and outs of what you do. Observe and know what the related processes are to what you do, and be aware of the responsibilities of those around you; you never know when and how this knowledge will help you progress.

Education keeps the mind fresh and active – regardless of where you stand on the career ladder. The stronger your desire to learn, the greater the possibility and moving up and becoming that invaluable person within the organization.

You  can read all 10 posts [here].

Tagged as: Education, Knowledge, Learning