Continuous Learning

Continuous learning keeps me excited and motivated.  In the past day I've visited with two folks who are at very different stages of their careers.  One recently graduated from college and is understandably doing a lot of on the job learning.  It was exciting to meet him at a large community event.  One of his colleagues invited him, knowing that exposure to community issues and leaders is another critical part of his post-college learning and growth.  The second encounter was catching up with a former colleague who has been in the workforce for 30 years.  She stayed in the same industry, but changed roles at her new company.  Though she has significant career experience,  her company and job learning curve is much like that of the newly minted grad.  And, I reminded her that she would be well-served to keep her community engagement and relationships current as she assesses what her next move might be.

Continuous learning takes many different forms.  Regardless of our age and stage, many of the elements are the same.

Time, Talent and Treasure

We all have time, talents and treasures to give to and receive from others.  Willingness and receptivity are the keys to learning and growing.

Worse then Better

It's difficult to accept that some things must get worse before they get better.  Running through the neighborhood, I saw a totally bare dirt yard.  Though it is unattractive now, it will be lovely in a day or two. 

Growing out bangs is another worse before better experience.  And we have to deal with rain in order to enjoy a rainbow.

Often when we are learning a new skill things are quite awkward until we become proficient.  Since continuous learning keeps us current, marketable and interesting, we need to accept a bit of imperfection in order to keep growing. 

  

Blooming or Withering

I received a beautiful orchid in early January with several lovely open blooms.  It also had 5 or 6 tight kernels on the end of the stalk.  It wasn't immediately obvious if these kernels were budding or withered.  Over the course of the month these buds have opened one by one, adding to the glory of this wonderful plant.  Because the orchid has continued to grow, it has brought new visual delight with each new bloom.

Just as with the orchid, it's not always obvious if we are blooming or withering. Continuous learning, insatiable curiosity and varied interactions allow us to grow and change.