I confess that I am a big reader—if I can find a book or a magazine article on something I am curious about or need to know that is my preferred way of learning. When I was a new parent, it was all about the parenting books. I read cookbooks, how-to books on various subjects, and definitely the business books. But, the truth is, there are just some things you can only learn on the job…
One of the fabulous things about operating your own business is that the lessons can be endless. Unlike a more “traditional” job where you might have a limited job description—running a business means constant evolution and change. As you grow your business and learn through trial and error (and the benefit of a few good mentors if you’re lucky) you are constantly improving your skills and understanding through hands-on, on-the-job learning.
I admit that some of these on-the-job learning “opportunities” can be less than pleasant. I know that despite all the books I’ve read and the articles I used to prepare me for running my own home business—I have made some big bloopers which resulting in lasting lessons! I’ve also been pleasantly surprised by some things that worked well for me that weren’t in any of the literature I read.
I have to say that when I consider all the work lessons I’ve learned over the years—the ones I have learned working in my own home businesses have been the most lasting and the most useful. Not that my years in more “traditional” jobs haven’t given me some tools that I use in my home business too. After all, with these work lessons we are able to immediately apply that knowledge to improving our businesses and with so much at stake, the lessons just seem to mean more.
Also: Do Your Values Affect Your Decision-Making Style?
How Will Your Decisions Affect the Future?