At what point should we stop learning? Is there a certain milestone, accolade or accomplishment that signifies that we have achieved our learning quota?
I think not, as I truly believe that learning is a gift that we have until our passing on earth. Yet, I am surprised at how many adults appear to have chosen to stop learning. When I refer to learning, I do not necessarily mean studying for an accredited course, I am referring to listening actively, reflecting on your experiences, stepping outside of your comfort zone and being open to new ideas and perspectives.
As an executive coach and leader, I have made a life-long commitment to learning and reflective practice as a means to make a difference and fulfil potential. With this in mind, I have embraced the opportunity to engage in a variety of personal and professional development opportunities, as they provide a wonderful opportunity to reflect, learn, engage in professional dialogue and develop best practice coaching skills and behaviours.
Gibbs’s (1988) 6 Stage Reflective Cycle (e.g. description, feelings, evaluation, analysis, conclusion and action plan) is a great tool to s upport learning, as it provides a consistent framework from which to effectively reflect on and evaluate learning experiences, in addition to planning and successfully preparing for similar situations in the future.
What has been your most significant learning point in the last month? How has this influenced your behaviours moving forward?
