Why I'll Never Stop Asking Questions

I've always been a self-proclaimed learner -- so much so, that a supervisor once told me early in my career that I asked too many questions. Looking back, I'm glad I didn't stop. I've always encouraged my team to not only think about how we're transforming our business to find ways to improve, but to also take a good, hard look at how we're transforming ourselves as leaders.

According to Kurzweil's Law of Accelerating Returns, the rapid rate of technology change is doubling every decade. So, how do we capture that for ourselves and adapt as professionals? That's where continuous learning comes in. For me, this is partially a survival tactic and partially a natural inquisitiveness to be a perpetual learner. From my experience, constantly seeking out learning opportunities from many directions is one of the best ways to evolve yourself... and your organization.

This skill has never been more important than now. With a world trying to recover from a pandemic, and many workplaces considering what returning to "normal" operations will look like, we need to find ways to "accelerate our own returns." As we take steps toward the future, I think we can all benefit from using this transition time as an opportunity to approach our own growth and learning from multiple directions. Here's what I mean:

Grow Your Mindset

First, a growth mindset is crucial. As we begin to navigate what I'm calling the "next normal," we need to proactively adapt and look for new solutions to evolve and thrive. And this only works if we have a learning orientation, both individually and as an organization. I'm a firm believer people can change -- they just need to want to change.

A good way to put this into practice is to ask yourself the question, "When was the last time you felt uncomfortable?" I ask my team that question often since it's a good measure to see if you're stretching yourself. If you don't feel uncomfortable, you're probably not being challenged in your role. And if you've stopped learning, it's time to reflect on why -- and that may mean moving on to find new ways to apply your skills so both you and your organization can continue to grow.

Learn from Others

Next, look past your own knowledge and gain an appreciation for other perspectives. People can offer you two invaluable things if you're willing to ask: diversity of thought and feedback. I've shared my thoughts before on the value of surrounding yourself with those who think differently, and it continues to be true. Someone with a different perspective can provide new, creative approaches to your old problems or processes that you may never have otherwise considered.

As many teams begin to come together in-person for the first time in a long time, use it as an opportunity to get input and brainstorm how the team can work together in new ways. Along the same lines, requesting feedback from leaders, peers and those you lead is the best way you can become aware of your own blind spots. Once you recognize them, you can start doing the work to improve them.

Embrace a Fresh Lens

Finally, as more people return to the workplace, take advantage of the opportunity to see your environment and processes through a fresh lens.

I realized long ago that people -- not companies -- innovate, and some seemingly small things could accidentally dampen their innovation. Words matter, and even the most innocent words can stifle innovation and give an employee the impression their ideas are not welcome. Instead, create a work environment where people are encouraged to bring forward their fresh ideas and take some risks. Many members of the team have been working from home for more than a year now, and when they return to the office, it's an ideal time to reevaluate how things are done and see what opportunities there could be to improve efficiencies. 

What are some ways you push yourself and your teams to continue learning, adapting and growing for the future?