As adults, we have the ability to learn a lesson from everyone we encounter, all of which help enhance our personal growth.
This article was originally published on January 8, 2017, and has been updated.
As adults, we can learn a life lesson from everyone we encounter.
Have you ever stopped to consider the fascinating way a toddler learns to talk, just by being around conversations they don’t even participate in?
We’re lifelong learners, and a lot of the time we don’t even realize it.
We teach our children so much more than just language. Their minds are like sponges, soaking in mannerisms, conversation styles, and temperament.
We’re primarily teaching them how to communicate, along with everything else they see!
On that note, here’s some information that you won’t want to miss about raising emotionally intelligent children.
This form of learning continues throughout our life cycle.
We learn as we go from our most valuable resources—the people we spend the most time with. That’s just one reason it’s essential to surround yourself with your people.
Similarly, as we get older, we can learn consciously, whether it be through formal or informal learning and education.
And—this is important—learning is the key to our personal growth.
Here’s why.
The benefits of formal and informal learning.
There are numerous benefits to formal and informal learning and a great deal of research that reinforces the importance of both.
Formal learning is paramount to individual growth and development. But equally important is informal learning.
What exactly do I mean by that?
Well, informal learning is unofficial, unscheduled, or impromptu knowledge we gain from others. It can be uniquely enriching when we take time to be mindful and notice our surroundings.
Time and again, we find ourselves in situations where we become frustrated, or we get our backs up in a defensive mode. Perhaps this is because someone is disagreeing with or challenging us. It’s during these circumstances that we can learn from others—if we allow ourselves to consider another option and open our minds to learning.
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Learn a valuable lesson from everyone you encounter–this is the best way to stay flexible, open-minded and less stressed. Embrace opportunities where you are caught off guard and learn something.
Even poor role models teach valuable life lessons that positively affect growth. Adults understand that not everyone is a good role model.
But what’s even more relevant to be considered is that “even poor role models teach valuable lessons.” We can learn from any situation every day of our lives.
I agree with author John Geiger when he says,
There is a purpose for everyone you meet. Some people will test you, some will use you, some will bring out the best in you, but everyone will teach you something about yourself. Both positive and negative relationships teach you valuable lessons. This is an incredible step toward expanding your consciousness. The road to self-discovery requires help from others. As humans we are always seeking feedback and approval from others. That is how we learn and become better as individuals. No relationship is a waste of time. The wrong ones teach you the lessons that prepare you for the right ones. Appreciate everyone that enters your life because they are contributing to your growth and happiness.
Learning lessons outside your comfort zone.
Part of reaching outside your comfort zone involves leaning into discomfort—and there are plenty of good reasons to do so! You can read more about that here.
The next time you are in a situation that is outside your comfort zone, consider being flexible and opening your mind to learning something valuable. Often, this promotes growth and provides our most powerful life lessons.
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Did you like this post? If you’d like to see more like this, have a look at these articles:Managing your Emotions will make you More Successful
How to Use Your Emotions to Make Rational Decisions
6 Easy Ways to Eliminate Obstacles & Change Your Life
