Learning Has Never Been Easier: Passionate and Relentless Self-Development

Do you ever get asked, "What would you do differently if you were starting your career today?" My answer is easy. I would have delayed my birth by about 15 years to capitalize on tools and technology available to business professionals and entrepreneurs today. They are a total game changer. 

My answer, of course, is neither practical nor possible. There was a 15-year gap between the founding and launching of my two companies. The process and the mechanics of starting a company were virtually the same. The evolution of technology and the transformation of the internet since 2002 would have made one key difference in my personal life and business career. It would have accelerated my ability to learn, execute, and excel. 

Carl Sagan captured it perfectly when he said, "Our passion for learning...is our tool for survival." I have long been a practitioner of this point of view. It always has and will continue to be a passion and habit that serves me well.

The internet is an incredible tool to leverage for learning. I am a business consultant, senior executive transformation coach and a crisis manager. However, I speak with many people who still believe that the behaviors and skills that made them top performers are still relevant and guarantee future success. Behavior change, the ability to unlearn and re-learn new skills and tactics, is a massive barrier to transformational change. 

Here are a few perspectives for those who believe continuous learning is optional and how the internet can flatten the learning curve and help you excel.

One: Access to Data and Research

The transition from the corporate world to founding your own business is challenging. I know this first hand. The data on business survival rates and research on top reasons why businesses fail or succeed is extensively documented and easily accessible by doing a simple search. Business fundamentals haven't really changed, but building a new company in today's digital environment is a different type of beast. The business world has evolved, and "new knowledge" is essential to remain relevant and competitive. Do your research and apply the analytics.

Two: Instant Access to the World's Best Business Minds

Advice, context, and perspective from different people with different points of view can be invaluable for personal and professional growth. You can access their content in audio, written, or video formats and connect with many of them through a variety of social media platforms. Free content from the best and the brightest? Content that is accessible on my time and my terms? I don't have to meet with you to learn from you? "Online" mentors and the knowledge they provide is priceless! Literally! Since it's free! 

Three: Free Skill Development Education and Training

The data is clear. Emotional intelligence is a skill that many managers and self-anointed leaders lack. This results in disengaged employees that cost companies millions in revenue each year. A search for self-awareness videos brings back many results from the scholars, scientists, and psychologists who are all experts in the field and can help you to understand and learn this elite communication skill. A focused and targeted self-development strategy will increase your personal and team performance. The cost is also reasonable and very affordable. 

A relentless passion for learning is foundational for achieving success. Access to an endless library of knowledge and information makes it easier to learn, achieve, excel, and thrive in your personal and professional lives. 

Learning sparks creativity. Creativity sparks innovation. Learning allows you to see opportunities that others, including your competitors, don’t see. This can be a huge advantage for growth and building market presence. In simple terms, learning is a differentiator that can make your personal life more meaningful and your career more successful.

What drives you to be a lifelong learner? 
How has it helped you personally or professionally?