Think for a moment about all of the knowledge and experience that you have accumulated to this point in your life. For many of us, we have gained these insights through both education (formal and informal) and simply by doing things. Some of us have been fortunate enough to have mentors and coaches who have helped guide us and pull the best out of us along the way. Yet, while we all see the benefit that education and coaching have had in our lives, at some point along the entrepreneurial journey many people simply give up.
While most entrepreneurs acknowledge the importance of continuing education and coaching, they are often trapped in the minutia of running the day to day business that they fail to take the time to dedicate themselves to personal growth, leadership enhancement or nurturing relationships with others like them. Most professionals and highly skilled people – from doctors, to lawyers, CPAs and pilots – are required to obtain a certain amount of continuing education hours per year just to be able to continue to do what they do. Moreover, most high achievers in other high-profile fields (such as professional athletes, musicians and artists) spend countless hours working with coaches and specialists who help them hone their craft, and they also spend time in the company of like-minded people who are also seeking optimal performance.
While continuing education and coaching usually is not a formal requirement for entrepreneurs, it is no less important to our personal development and the growth of our companies. By seeking out education in all its forms (i.e., books, seminars, formal classes, etc.) and finding a “mastermind” or “forum” group of likeminded entrepreneurs we can ensure that we will remain focused on honing our craft and leading our companies to new heights. Simply put, you owe it to yourself to be committed to lifelong learning in everything you do.
Please watch the video below to hear more about our thoughts on Education and Coaching.