Learn at Any Age

This is a little opinion “rant” that is truly open to any comments back. It stems from some recent conversations and observations made that have made me think. Why is it that some people seem to be able to move forward creatively while others appear to be stuck in the past and seem unwilling to alter their thoughts or approach?

There are two major areas I believe influence one’s attitude. One is the simple process of willingness to listen to what others think and/or say. The other related item is the interest and openness to learn. They may be intertwined, although I make a distinction between the two.

A willingness to listen is a key to gaining perspective. This may either validate or conflict with one’s own opinion. Depending on an individual’s openness to consider what they hear, determines whether they change their point of view or not. Sometimes the thoughts are changed; however, there are also times that the information is taken to simply figure how to further one’s own steadfast thoughts.

The openness and willingness to learn however, entails not only listening but a desire or interest to use the information in a new and potentially more valuable way. I feel that many of us have dealt with people or situations where we have heard the comments back that such as “that is always the way we have done things” or “we were successful because of doing this ….”. Either of those responses or similar ones tend to be very frustrating because it limits the options and opportunities. Hence the blog title of “Learning at any Age”.

Do not get me wrong. Past history, experience and knowledge is very important, however, learning and in particular being open to learn is especially critical in today’s world. Today’s technology is changing everything on a more rapid basis than ever before. The technological changes of the past have had major impacts on life whether you consider inventions (i.e. phone, light bulb, etc) or their next generation impacts (mobile phone, LED lighting, etc) to the rapid transformation of the technology surrounding information/data/social media.

Willingness to be open to learn places us potentially”ahead of the curve” or at the very least, current. Not only are those valuable in today’s business climate, but as we age, it also keeps us younger, more vibrant and relevant. In fact, I’d encourage all of us to reach out and listen to someone younger and listen what they have to say. Their “take” may just be the key to the next major shift to move a business forward.