STOP – in the name of learning well…
Do you suffer from random acts of learning? We love to learn but made a commitment to learning with purpose. Focus on targeted acts of learning versus random ones!
Before you sign up for the next conference (even if it’s virtual and free), buy another book, or register for a webinar, it’s important to know WHAT you are targeting. Content counts, and not all topics will create the same level of advancement.
- PURPOSE – have you defined your powerful personal purpose? Getting clear on your purpose provides clarity on where you need to concentrate your learning. If you haven’t defined your purpose, check out the 5 Days to Clarity of Purpose Challenge.
- FOCUS – Based on your purpose, what is your learning goal? Is there a gap in your knowledge or skills? Do you want to learn cutting-edge approaches to leadership? Do you want to go back to the basics and get grounded in proven communication practices? Start with your learning outcome and work your way backward. If you want to improve your communication effectiveness, maybe you focus on your listening or storytelling skills.
- SELECT – Identify the topic you want to learn more about. Then find the six most widely acclaimed books, the top three experts, and the most highly rated class in the topic. Spend a specific amount of time (three to six months) focused on learning that topic or skill from the best of the best. It’s easy to get excited about lots of different topics and end up reading aimlessly. If you try to learn many different things at once, it isn’t nearly as impactful as rapidly advancing your knowledge in a specific area, with the best resources, in a focused timeframe.
You have many options for acquiring knowledge and skills. We’ve mentioned books, experts, and classes as approaches to learning. Other beneficial learning resources include a coach or mentor (not the same!) or joining a community where you can learn from peers.
Quit learning randomly by deciding where you need to focus and which resources support your acquisition of the knowledge and skills needed to achieve your goals.
