Practice what we Preach! The Great Irony of L&D Pros Developing Everyone But Themselves

In the world of Learning and Development, professionals are often dedicated to enhancing the skills and knowledge of others. However, it's not uncommon for us to put our own development on the back burner. I know I have because of varying excuses and commitments. In this article, I delve into the reasons behind this paradox and shed light on the importance of L&D professionals prioritising their own growth.

The Irony of Neglecting Self-Development

L&D professionals, by nature, are champions of learning and growth. We thrive on designing and delivering training that empowers others to excel in their roles. Yet, many of us find ourselves caught in a perplexing paradox - dedicating our time and expertise to others' development while inadvertently neglecting our own. This irony raises a crucial question: Why do those who preach the gospel of learning sometimes fail to apply it to themselves?

Root Causes of Neglect

"The greatest obstacle to discovery is not ignorance - it is the illusion of knowledge." - Daniel J. Boorstin

• Time Constraints: L&D roles can be demanding, with constant needs for designing and delivering training materials, coordinating workshops, and staying updated with the latest industry trends. This frenetic pace leaves little time for personal growth and development.
• Perceived Self-Sufficiency: L&D professionals often possess a robust toolkit of skills honed over years of experience. This self-sufficiency can lead to the assumption that continuous learning is unnecessary, as they might believe they already possess the required competencies. Remember experience doesn’t stand still so why should your development?
• Lack of Resources: In an ironic twist, the focus on organisational development sometimes translates to limited resources for individual growth. Budgets, time, and support may be allocated towards training others, inadvertently sidelining the development needs of L&D professionals themselves.
• Putting Others First: The selfless nature of L&D professionals often leads them to prioritise the growth of others. This noble inclination, while commendable, can result in their own needs falling by the wayside.
• Burnout: The relentless pressure to consistently deliver impactful training sessions can lead to burnout. With energy and enthusiasm channelled into meeting deadlines, little remains for pursuing their own development.

Impact on Career and Effectiveness

The ramifications of neglecting personal development can be far-reaching. L&D professionals risk stunting your career growth and diminishing its effectiveness in a rapidly evolving field. Stagnation can take hold, leaving some learning professionals ill-equipped to keep pace with emerging trends and innovative methodologies.

Breaking the Cycle

"Develop a passion for learning. If you do, you will never cease to grow." - Anthony J. D'Angelo

While the challenges of prioritising self-development are clear, it's essential for us as L&D professionals to find ways to break the cycle. So how do we do it:

• Schedule Time: Just as you allocate time for designing workshops and courses, L&D professionals should schedule regular intervals for your personal development. Carving out focused time for learning can foster growth.
• Set Goals: Establishing concrete goals for personal development provides direction and motivation. Whether it's acquiring a new skill, earning a certification, or expanding knowledge in a specific area, goals serve as guideposts.
• Network and Collaborate: Engaging with your peers in the industry through networking events, conferences, and online communities can spark valuable exchanges of ideas. Peer learning offers fresh perspectives and insights that can drive your own personal growth. Participation in workshops, seminars, and conferences dedicated to L&D topics exposes you to cutting-edge practices and theories. These events reignite passion and offer valuable takeaways.
• Seek Mentorship: We as L&D professionals should actively seek mentors who can offer guidance, share experiences, and provide a supportive sounding board. Mentorship enhances professional development.

Benefits for Both Professionals and Organisations

Prioritising self-development yields a host of benefits:

• Enhanced Expertise: A commitment to continuous learning sharpens your skills and expertise, which directly contributes to designing more effective training programs.
• Innovation: Exposure to new ideas and approaches fosters innovation. When you push your boundaries you are more likely to introduce creative methodologies that engage learners.
• Personal Fulfillment: Investing in personal growth is intrinsically rewarding. It leads to a sense of accomplishment, job satisfaction, and personal fulfillment.

Leading by Example

By putting your own development at the forefront, you become, as L&D professionals, beacons of inspiration for your colleagues and teams. Your actions demonstrate the value of lifelong learning and lay the foundation for a culture of continuous improvement within any organisation.

"The capacity to learn is a gift; the ability to learn is a skill; the willingness to learn is a choice." - Brian Herbert

In conclusion, in the dynamic field of Learning and Development, it's crucial for professionals, like yourself, to lead by example and prioritise your own development. By breaking free from the cycle of neglect and investing in your growth, you will not only enhance your career but also contribute to the advancement of your organisations and the industry as a whole. The journey towards continuous self-improvement is not only a commitment to your own success but a testament to the very principles you champion - the power of learning and growth.