In the evolving world of business, staying ahead means constantly learning and growing. It's amazing what we, as humans, don’t even know that we don’t know. New learning opportunities are everywhere, and in this digital age, there’s simply no excuse to avoid new learning.

Think about the countless new things a five-year-old learns each day. Children eagerly embrace the world of possibility and the desire to learn. So, why is it that, as we grow older, we tend to close our minds to new knowledge and experiences?

We understand that everyone is busy, and finding time to learn can be challenging. But investing in your personal and professional growth is crucial. You need to make time. Set yourself targets and share these with someone who will hold you accountable for achieving them.

Here are eight ways to learn more, and position yourself for business success:

1. Read More

Finding time to read can be challenging, but it’s a valuable habit to cultivate. Set a reminder on your phone to read before bed each night. Start with reading just 3 or 4 pages, and then increase this amount each week as you get into the habit. Mix it up with recreational books and business books, fiction and non-fiction. This variety will keep you engaged and expose you to different perspectives. As a bonus, reading before bed can help you relax and sleep better!

2. Resist the Urge to Hang Out on Your Phone

Your phone can be a powerful tool for learning, but it can also be a major distraction. Avoid spending too much time on social media platforms like Facebook or X, where meaningful learning is often scarce. Instead, use your phone to listen to podcasts, eBooks, or audiobooks. Explore learning apps like Duolingo, or Coursera. These resources can turn idle moments into valuable learning opportunities, making your screen time productive.

3. Enroll in Courses or Workshops

Courses and workshops are excellent for structured learning. Whether online or in person, choose topics that interest you and are relevant to your business. Platforms like Udemy, LinkedIn Learning, and Skillshare offer a wide range of courses on everything from digital marketing to leadership skills. Investing in your education through these courses can provide you with new insights and skills that directly benefit your business.

4. Turn Off Your TV

Television can be a significant time sink, but it doesn’t have to be. Instead of watching entertainment shows, tune into TED talks, educational YouTube channels, or documentaries. These resources can provide valuable knowledge and inspiration. Channels like TEDx Talks, Big Think, and National Geographic offer content that is both informative and engaging.

5. Keep a Journal of Your Learnings

Documenting what you learn helps reinforce new information and provides a resource to revisit later. Keep a journal where you jot down key takeaways from books, courses, podcasts, and other learning activities. Regularly review your journal to refresh your memory and deepen your understanding. Remember, you don’t truly know something until you can teach it to someone else.

6. Network with Like-minded Individuals

Surround yourself with people who are also committed to learning and growing. Join professional associations, attend industry conferences, or participate in local business meetups. Engaging with peers can provide fresh insights, new perspectives, and valuable connections. Networking not only broadens your knowledge but also opens up opportunities for collaboration and mentorship.

7. Engage in Hands-on Learning

Sometimes, the best way to learn is by doing. Take on new projects or responsibilities that push you out of your comfort zone. Experiment with new business strategies, tools, or technologies. Hands-on learning helps you apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios, deepening your understanding and boosting your confidence.

8. Reflect and Apply

Learning is most effective when you reflect on what you’ve learned and apply it to your business. After completing a course or reading a book, take some time to consider how the new knowledge can be implemented. Create action plans to integrate new strategies or ideas into your business operations. This approach ensures that your learning translates into tangible improvements and growth.

So...

What areas should you be learning more about? It could be leadership, management, sales, or writing skills. Find out the best ways to develop your knowledge and set aside time to learn. Don’t forget to ask someone to hold you accountable. Maybe you could buddy up with someone and meet regularly to share your learnings? Once you begin learning, your hunger to learn will grow.

Remember the margins from last week’s blog? These are the spaces we create for ourselves away from the normal routine that allow us to get creative, inspired and give that new big idea a chance to reveal itself!

At Carthy Accountants, we want you to be empowered with the knowledge and skills to drive your business forward. Continuous learning is the key to unlocking your business’s full potential. Get in touch with us, and let's explore how we can support your journey to success.

Stay curious, stay committed, and let’s grow together!

Get the business you want!