Loving Leaders Invest in Learning: Their Own!

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Written on my white board is this reminder: 

Invest in and challenge yourself!

This is one of the six core behaviors that are part of the “Love Yourself” pillar in my Loving Leaders Framework. And it is alive for me right now, after what feels like years of neglecting my own learning. So I’m personally leaning into this in a big way. 

And here's what's happening: Not only am I learning a ton, but I’m also re-energized, flowing with creativity, meeting kindred spirits, and having a fantastic time too! 

Once I realized how long it had been since I'd let myself focus on learning, I took several steps.

First, I got clear on the areas where I really want to learn and grow. And then, because there are so many, I prioritized them. I did some research, online to be sure, but more importantly I talked to colleagues who are skilled and knowledgeable in my focus area. I made a financial budget and a time budget too. And then I committed and took action! 

This winter, I hired a professional speaking coach and I joined the National Speakers Association Northwest Chapter. I've taken several workshops, joined some interest groups, and competed in a speaking contest too. 

And last Saturday, I attended the Northwest Speaker Showcase, to support 13 top notch speakers. I'll admit that it was great to be in the audience this time and not competing! But I gained so many insights from this experience as an audience member, too, as they demonstrated the best speaking practices and skills.

I had numerous “aha moments” about principles I'm studying and working on like “starting in the story,” and “making only one point for any ten minutes of a talk," and using "dialogue to bring a story to life.” I'll be able to apply these with more clarity and conviction to my own talks now.

On the way home, my mind was buzzing with so many ideas, I had to pull over to write them down. That's the joy and benefit of being stimulated by learning. 

Don't you long for this? But maybe you find that too often your learning gets squeezed out by the pressure to take care of everyone else on your team or in your family? Or that meeting urgent obligations can make it feel impossible to commit to learning? 

My Love and Fear Research participants have made it clear that opportunities to learn and grow are part of feeling loved at work. And Loving Leader, you need these same opportunities too! 

Here's my encouragement today: Honor yourself too. Make room for your own learning by finding new ways to challenge yourself. Information and access to learning options are abundant. Grab ahold them! 

Choose one area of growth you've wanted to pursue. Research your options online and talking to others. Choose something and as spring begins, commit to investing in your own learning.  

Afterall, you are a great investment!   

And, if Loving Leadership happens to be what you want to learn more about, then please explore my refreshed website's Loving Leaders Lab services or schedule a call to talk about how we can support your leadership team's unique Loving Leaders learning needs!