Today’s post, "Never Stop Learning", is written by my
Executive Assistant, Cindy Lee. Cindy has been with me for a almost 4 years. She brought over 20 years of experience to LDI when she joined the team. She has also brought a “thirst” to know more
and a desire to be a successful assistant to me.
Cindy also has her own passion, a passion for writing.
She has a gift for words, both written and spoken. To that end, when she
suggested writing some Rules for Success that she has used to guide her path to
success, I said “Go for it”.
As always, your feedback and comments are appreciated. Tell
me how something you learned has impacted your success. E-mail me at solutions@LdiWorld.com or click here
for an online comment form.
You’re awesome! Be extraordinary!
Anthony Tormey
Founder & CEO
Leader Development Institute
NEVER STOP LEARNING
As the fall of each year arrives, the new school year brings
about much hub-bub. School shopping, last minute vacations, children
getting back into the habit of going to bed early, parents rejoicing over
children going to bed early, college students in transition and teachers making
classrooms ready, are all part of the final frenzy before that first
day. Do you remember those days? You may not have the “back to
school” syndrome, but you should never stop learning.
Success is something that is ever changing. What you
know now to be successful, will not necessarily be what you need to know
to stay successful. Unless that is, you plan to stay in the position
you‘re currently in for the rest of your life. Even in that case, you
will most likely be required to learn something new just to maintain the status
quo.
Over my many (and I won’t say how many) years of employment
I have learned all sorts of things. From how to properly scoop ice cream,
to reading “specs” enabling me set up drill presses, to weighing garbage
trucks, to operating a computer and its’ many programs, to being an executive
assistant. Most recently, I have learned how to design & build
websites. In each position, I have striven to be the best; the only way
to do that was to keep learning.
In some instances, only professional training will do.
In many instances, informal learning is just as beneficial. To learn
Microsoft applications, I took formal classes. To learn about web site
design, I sat in the comfort of my own home and viewed webinars. To be an
executive assistant at LDI, I pulled from everything I already knew and learned
as much as I could about LDI. I am still learning!
Learning is not something you can always attribute to any
one particular class or experience. Some of it comes from the necessity
of everyday life. Ever been to a strange place and need to find your way
around? In the 21st century, some folks use GPS(Global
Positioning System). Before you could use it, you had to learn how to
operate it. Before GPS, we used maps. Somewhere you had to learn
how to read and use one. Every time you upgrade a cell phone, a computer,
a car…you have to learn to use it.
Sometimes, it is a matter of re-learning. The way you
used to do something may not be the best way to do it. So, you re-learn
the better way. This is especially true as your success grows. As
you come into contact with new people, new ideas, new situations, and new
responsibilities – you need to learn to deal with each of these with an “I want
to know more.” attitude.
Train your mind to learn from everything around you.
Ask questions. (See rule #23) Whether it is in a classroom, a
seminar, an on-line course or just observing people and things around you, you
should never stop learning!
Learn something new today. Be Extraordinary!
Cindy Lee
Executive Assistant
Leader Development Institute
