Did you know that Warren Buffett reads five hundred pages a day?
I think that’s astounding. It probably takes him at least a few hours but most of us don’t have that kind of time, reading and learning are one of those important elements for successful small business owners. A passion for lifelong learning keeps you on your toes and makes sure you’re not falling behind when new ideas or technologies come around and start changing your business.
Lifelong learning gives you ideas on what to do to combat inflation or manage your money and your employees. Not all of us have gone through business school or have twenty years of experience. And don’t forget, trends can change. People’s personalities and cultures change over time. We need to make sure we have the resources and the knowledge to be able to continue to grow our business.
Making Lifelong Learning Important
Now, you may be thinking, “I don’t have the time to read even five pages a day.” And it’s true, that most of us can’t afford to hire the kind of help that someone like Warren Buffet can. Most of us spend more time on things like household chores and managing our day-to-day business.
But there are still ways to fit in daily reading and learning that won’t take time away from your necessary activities . You could also try loading ebooks onto your phone or playing audiobooks in your car during your commute.
Try giving yourself a small goal, a goal you can reach, even if it’s only a few pages a day. You will be able to absorb and retain the information you are learning. Read new information that you are interested in. Try learning new technology. Develop a new skill or activity. When you learn a new skill or acquire new knowledge you are also building other skills that can help you in your personal and professional life.
The Value of Lifelong Learning
We’ve talked about how your personal life and business life are closely connected. For example, if your personal finances are a mess, your business finances aren’t in very good shape.
Likewise, continued education will help you feel better in your personal life. A Walden University study points out that continued learning keeps your brain cells stimulated and healthy and provides you with social outlets like classes or book clubs. Plus there are benefits to the satisfaction and open-mindedness you gain from pushing yourself to learn new things. When you’re feeling happy, connected, and wise in your personal life, you’ll bring those benefits to your business.
Learning is Fun
A lot of us did not like school or learning when we were young. But as I’ve gotten older I’ve learned the value of education. It really does help you improve your business. I’d encourage you to pick up a book, whether you have the time to read five hundred pages a day or just a page or two. Go out and learn a new skill or activity As long as you have that mentality of continuing to learn, it’ll help your business grow.