“In a time of drastic change, it is the learners who inherit the future. The learned usually find themselves equipped to live in a world that no longer exists.” — Eric Hoffer
Have you reached a place where you are no longer enjoying your job or tired of the same routine?
Or perhaps you have lost interest in the things that used to be exciting, and instead of moving forward, you are going through the motions?
Consider that your situation will only get better when you deliberately create circumstances that demand you stretch, grow and become more. Learning begins when you are willing to push yourself outside of your comfort zone and engage in new challenges. In this video, I discuss the Mindset Mastery Principle of Lifelong Learning. Find out how fulfilling life can be when you become comfortable with being uncomfortable.
What is Lifelong Learning?
Wikipedia defines lifelong learning as the “ongoing, voluntary, and self-motivated” pursuit of knowledge for either personal or professional reasons. It is a continuous commitment to learn, grow and improve your skills, mindset and well-being. A lifelong learner understands the importance of growth. They never settle for what they currently know and are always seeking improvement.
As humans, we like being comfortable, and we will avoid discomfort. It is our desire for what is familiar that most often stands in the way of growth. The truth is, change is inherently uncomfortable. Here are five steps you can use to embrace lifelong learning and move beyond your comfort zone.
1- A vision worthy of your life: It is essential to have a clear vision that inspires and moves you. Your vision must paint a picture that ignites all your senses and evokes emotions. The moment you commit to a compelling vision, you may become anxious and overwhelmed at the thought of what it takes to achieve this goal. Your vision must be powerful enough to get you past the anxiety, fear and challenges that you will face while building your dreams.
2- Decide you are going to win: This is the act of committing to doing absolutely everything you possibly can to fulfill your vision. It is to perform beyond your current abilities.
3- Embrace your fears: To embrace fear does not mean you are free of fear; rather, you are in control of your emotions. Embracing your fear requires you to give up doubt and indecision. Choose to move forward with certainty, decide on an action, then ACT. Remember, a decision is only real when you take action. Embracing fears will also require you to redefine failure. What most people call failure, I define as a learning or growth opportunity. It is to pick up the lessons, evaluate and course correct.
4- Give up the need to look good and be perfect: Focus on completing projects and moving forward, rather than striving for perfection. To accept your mistakes and to admit when you need help. It is to celebrate the fact that you have given your best effort and to move on. With practice, you will become resilient, productive and creative.
5- Commit to being solution-focused: Look for opportunities and accept that every problem or challenge has a solution. It is to be persistent and to trust that you can overcome challenges.
Success and leadership begin with first mastering the mindset, emotions and communication of the person you see in the mirror. Register for your Complimentary Mindset Mastery Mini-Course!