L&D On The Go

Learning and development (L&D) frequently take a backseat for those running solo ventures. It may not generate immediate income like marketing or operational tasks, but L&D is essential for long-term progress. While growth through experience is a natural part of entrepreneurship, it’s important not to drift aimlessly.

To effectively manage L&D, solo entrepreneurs can follow two key steps:

1. Identify specific areas of interest or skills to enhance.
2. Commit to following through on your learning journey.

By adopting this two-step approach, you can steer your growth in a deliberate manner.

Step 1: Engage Actively in Learning

Authentic learning involves active participation. It's about making a conscious decision to refine the skills necessary for your role. Simply streaming a training video in the background might earn you some continuing education credits, but it won't help you internalize the material.

The first step is to set a clear intention. When you genuinely want to learn about a subject, your motivation to absorb and apply the information will significantly increase. Take time to evaluate your interests and weaknesses in your side hustle. Concentrate on enhancing your abilities in these key areas.

Step 2: Commitment to Your Learning Journey

Finding ways to learn may require some creativity, especially when resources are limited. While companies often invest heavily in training programs, you might not have that luxury as an individual. Fortunately, there is an abundance of free resources available to help you get started. However, the challenge lies in filtering through this vast amount of information.

Consider these questions to streamline your learning:

• Do you prefer learning through videos, or are they merely entertaining?
• Are you more inclined to engage with a series of concise articles rather than a lengthy one?

Using your preferred learning medium as a starting point can help you navigate through the information overload. Once you become comfortable with a platform, you can explore the best sources and educators in your chosen field.

Consistency: Your Competitive Edge

The ability to consistently engage in learning is a rare skill. Begin with topics that captivate you and select a format that encourages ongoing engagement. By developing a formula that combines (1) active learning and (2) commitment, you'll create a significant advantage over your competitors.

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