Self-Improvement / Personal Development
Why Continual Learning Is Crucial for True Leadership
To Be A Leader, You Must Be A Student of The Subject
Henry Ford once said, ‘’Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty. Anyone who keeps learning stays young. The greatest thing in life is to keep your mind young.’’
As a senior, I still learn daily, which technically means my mind is still young, even if my body isn’t.
Don’t you agree that there is something new to learn daily?
Embracing the Wisdom of Age
Yesterday, I listened to an inspiring podcast interview with Gladys McGary — the 102-year-old doctor who has written a book titled — The Well-Lived Life.
Gladys shared her six secrets to health and happiness for any age, a fresh perspective for me.
If you haven’t come across her books, at least listen to her podcast interview; you will not regret it.
Power of Curiosity
My curiosity about work and life started when I joined the British Navy as an apprentice.
My commanding officer once told me there was no such thing as a stupid question.
He urged me to learn from experienced tradies and ask as many questions as possible.
This valuable lesson has remained with me throughout my life.
The Journey of Learning
When I landed my first role as a Project Supervisor, I’ll be honest — I didn’t even know about reading a general shipbuilding arrangement.
But you know what?
I reached out to my foreman, seeking guidance.
He generously educated me on reading complex drawings and understanding legal contracts.
My thirst for knowledge led me to study various trades, read books, and attend night lectures to enhance my skills.
This dedication enabled me to confidently engage in deep discussions with engineers from different disciplines.
Pursuit of Knowledge is a Leader’s Responsibility
Learning can be tiring and sometimes exhausting, but I always find it stimulating.
It feeds my curiosity and gives me peace of mind.
Otherwise, I will be up all night thinking.
Asking questions, no matter how dumb they seem, is crucial because learning from others’ experiences is the quickest way to gain knowledge.
That’s why continual learning is crucial for authentic leadership.
The Importance of Evolving as a Leader.
As a leader, you must provide direction, make decisions, and guide your team towards success.
But in today’s fast-paced world, things change rapidly, and what worked yesterday may not work tomorrow.
This is where continual learning comes into play.
Leaders who think they ‘’know it all’’ often find themselves stuck.
The Story of the Empty Tea Cup
Here is a well-known story that Bruce Lee learned from his master about a Japanese Zen master and a university professor.
The professor seemed more interested in impressing the master than actually learning.
The master patiently listened and then suggested they have tea.
As he poured, the cup overflowed, prompting the professor to comment on the spillage.
The master used this as an analogy, telling the professor that he needed to empty his mind of his opinions and speculations to understand Zen truly.
It meant emptying one’s mind of past knowledge and habits to be open to new learning.
We often carry baggage when we want to learn, such as beliefs, expectations, and preconceived ideas.
But if we think we already know everything, very little new information can enter our minds.
6 Practical Steps for Continual Learning
- Set clear learning goals: Identify specific skills or knowledge you want to acquire.
- Read widely: Books, articles, and blog posts can broaden your perspectives and impart new knowledge.
- Attend webinars and workshops: Learn from experts in your field of interest.
- Take online courses: Enhance your skills or expertise in a specific area.
- Engage in discussions: Conversations with diverse individuals can lead to fresh insights.
- Practice what you learn: Implement new knowledge in your daily life.
Follow these links and immerse yourself in the enthralling universe of writers who are truly worth your time: Rameen Zeeshan, Anv Guruz, Lee Byrd, Esther Serwaa Akoto, Jessica's Quill, Elona Lopari, Paolo Ferrari, Nico, Merr Gumm, Daniel Mayhugh, Stephanie Mccabe, Ruth Miller-Anderson PhD, and Doc Lover.
Conclusion
Our continual learning isn’t just about staying relevant — it’s about growing as a person and leader.
It’s about appreciating and understanding that there is always room for improvement.
Furthermore, the journey of learning never truly ends.
Have you ever imagined being a part of someone’s dream? Here’s your chance! Support my journey by gifting me a virtual coffee.
Your contribution is the caffeine that keeps me going. Thanks for brewing up some love!
Robin Ghosh’s expertise is in project management, sales, marketing, and business development. He has accumulated over two decades of experience working with renowned global brands like Transerve, Castrol, BP, TOTAL, Sinopec, and ENI.
