Always a Student, Always a Teacher
Let’s chat about a concept that’s been a game-changer for me: “Always a student, always a teacher.” What comes to mind when you hear that? For me, it’s been a guiding principle throughout my career, especially when I transitioned from operations to safety.
Imagine, if you will (as the twilight zone music plays)- two strangers meet on the street. Instantly, they’re both a teacher and a student. Why? Because everyone has something valuable to share and something to learn. This idea isn’t just for safety professionals and operators—it’s for managers and leaders too.
As a safety professional, I’ve spent a lot of time conducting training sessions, standing at the front of the room, sharing ideas, and teaching people how to stay safe. But here’s the thing: operators have seen it all. If you want to know the real dangers of a job, ask the operators. They’re the ones who can tell you what it’s like to get doused in chemicals because they opened a relief valve the wrong way. Or how to perform a job safely, like the fabrication guy who’s been at it for thirty years and still has all ten fingers.
We often think it’s our duty to educate, but sometimes we forget to listen and learn. Embracing the idea of always being a teacher and a student helps bridge that gap. It reminds us that learning is a two-way street.
So, next time you’re in a training session or just chatting with a colleague, remember: you have something to teach, and you have something to learn. It’s a simple yet powerful way to build stronger, more trusting relationships at work.
Got any stories or tips about learning from others at work? I’d love to hear them!
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nathanhammer.substack.com
6 个月Good work. Always have the humility to ask questions when you don’t know something. That can be tough for guys, but overcoming that hurdle to ask can be a game changer personally and professionally.
Regional EHS Manager
6 个月James, Excellent article. I could not agree with you more. Over the years I have learned much from operators, quality & maintenence personnel.