November: Gear for Growth.

We learn and grow consistently throughout our time at school – each year accumulating more knowledge and skills, building on what we learnt before, and adding to our foundational education. Many of us are lucky to continue the trajectory after school with further education in the form of courses, degrees or diplomas.

Then, having achieved the base knowledge in our chosen field, we enter the workplace, and that’s where the on-the-job learning begins. Over time, we gain invaluable skills and experience in working with people (from colleagues and customers, to suppliers and  managers), in solving problems and following business strategies. If we are lucky that results in a continuous feedback loop that keeps the growth and stimulation on an upward trend.

When the learning levels off, so can the degree of stimulation, and also sometimes the amount of satisfaction. It can be wonderfully rewarding and energising to keep learning and upskilling; provided that it is in an area that interests you. As we get older our interests change, and we gather experience that lead us on to more specified fields. It is with a sense of accomplishment that we can share that expertise by teaching others, and helping them to gain and grow in confidence and capability.

Albert Einstein said: “Intellectual growth should commence at birth and cease only at death.”

Consider taking charge of your growth, and making the most of the wondrous tool that each of us have in the form of the brain that we were born with. If cobwebs have developed, dust them off. Find a way to learn and to grow – it does not need to be through formal education (although there is a hugely enticing array of online courses available in almost every area of interest) – it can be through conversations with mentors, self-study and reading, or excursions that you create for yourself.

Invest in your advancement, if for nothing else than to celebrate the capability of your brain. Learn for the love it, and celebrate the satisfaction and stimulation that follows. It can be for your career (your existing one, or your next one) or for your self-interest; to help others or to help yourself.

We are all curious about different things – that’s one of the many things that makes life so interesting. Choose your own pace, but be consistent. Don’t wait until there is time – create the time as a gift to yourself.

Love your learning, and feel grateful for the growth that results.