Learning without thought

 

Who doesn't start out the new year with a Confucius quote?

Seriously though - this particular quote hits pretty close to home as I reflect on my career, and consider my next steps forward.

I've been blessed to have worked with so many amazing people, from whom I have learned so much. Wonderful mentors, talented coworkers, incredible partners, people who have challenged me, taught me, solved problems with me, taught me new approaches, supported me, laughed with me, learned with me. The experiences of my past have taught me countless lessons about how to be a good partner, team member, leader and coach.

That said, those lessons mean so much more when I'm able to apply them to the task at hand. Every training session, workshop, seminar or new certification imparts valuable knowledge - but until I apply those lessons to solving a problem, or working together to create value - they are just theory.

Learning new knowledge is great. Applying that knowledge in real time is the seed that true growth springs from.

As we all set our goals for 2025, as we think ahead to where we want to be next, be sure to balance your learning with opportunities to apply that knowledge. Collecting learning experiences is certainly admirable, but I wonder if true wisdom only comes from applying those lessons to the benefit of others.

Here is to a blessed 2025 for everyone.