I love learning new things.
Yes, I’m a bit of a nerd and I’m proud of it!
As a leader, you know that things are constantly changing. You know that you need to constantly update your knowledge. But you’re really busy. All. The. Time!
Between meetings, strategy sessions, day-to-day tasks, your
family, trying to stay healthy – when are you going to have the time to learn anything
new?
Why Learning Matters (Even When You’re Busy)
Let’s first talk about why it’s important to learn continuously – even when your calendar is packed. You need to know how to deal with new and old challenges; to adapt to new technologies and new trends in your field.
Learning can also help you to develop in:
Innovation – Having knowledge allows you to come up with creative solutions to new and old challenges. You can also get ideas to do things differently and more effectively.
Adaptability and Relevance – By staying updated with the latest developments in your field, you have the ability to pivot and respond to new situations with some previous knowledge, helping you to stay relevant.
Decision-making – Learning empowers you to make
informed decisions and sound strategic choices.
How to Learn When You Really Don’t Have Time
Let’s face it. You’re busy – very busy.
But here’s the truth: if you want to be an effective leader, you have to make time to learn.
Here are some realistic ways to fit learning into your busy days:
Attend workshops or conferences – Identify 2 or 3 workshops or conferences that are taking place each year. Usually, the organisers advertise them way in advance and there are conferences that take place at the same time each year. Book those dates out in your calendar upfront. These events are great ways to learn, network and exchange ideas with others who are in the same or similar field or role as you.
Read – Reading a book, article, blog, or even a LinkedIn post is a great way to gain new knowledge. You can also use Apps like Libby to read a book on your phone. (Disclaimer: Libby is a free App but you need to have a library card to use it – personally I think EVERYONE should have a library card). I carry a book in my bag so if I have unexpected time, I can read. I told you I was a nerd!
Listen to podcasts or audiobooks – You can listen to audiobooks or podcasts while you’re exercising, driving or making dinner. (Audiobooks are also available on Libby).
Sign up for webinars – I register for webinars that I think might add value even if I know that I won’t be available to attend. Most webinars are recorded, and the recording is shared with those who have registered, even for a limited time. This way, I’ll be able to watch the replay when I have the time.
Find a mentor – An experienced mentor can provide you
with guidance, expertise and learnings form their own experiences. A coffee meeting once a month can be easy to
manage.
Make Learning Feel Less Like a Chore
Dedicate time – Yes, I know you’re busy! Try to schedule time in your calendar specifically to learn. What gets scheduled gets done.
Change your mindset around learning – I know some people who see learning as a chore. One of my clients felt intimidated when we spoke about developing a habit of continuous learning. He was intimidated by having to “study.” What worked for him was to change his mindset that learning didn’t necessarily mean studying for a formal qualification. Learning is about curiosity and growth and can take place by talking to someone, reading an informative LinkedIn post, or listening to a podcast or an audiobook.
Encourage a learning culture in your teams – You can learn from those that report to you as much as they can learn from you. Sharing what each person has learned in team meetings is a great way to develop a culture of learning. Allow people to share learnings that are not work related too. This helps to make learning less intimidating.
Reflect and Experiment – Learning something new won’t
have an impact unless you apply what you’ve learned. Reflect on what you’ve learned and experiment
in real life situations. Keep
experimenting until you find what works.
Being a leader means staying sharp, open, and curious—but it doesn’t have to mean overhauling your life.
Learning is less about time, and more about mindset and intention.
So, here’s your challenge:
📆
Block out 30 minutes this week for learning.
💡
Try one new way to absorb knowledge—read, listen, reflect, or chat with
someone wise.
It doesn't have to be perfect.
Just get started.