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Better Today Than Yesterday

Never Stop Learniing

This year was a milestone for me; I turned the big 5-0.  A handful of folks have asked me what I learned since my last birthday. That question was hard to answer, not because I couldn’t think of anything, but because I didn’t know how much time they had!

I am always seeking knowledge. Every day I learn a few new things and every day I become better than I was yesterday. That is an important principle in how we define our Growth core value here at J2. Another important part is “…leave people better than yesterday,” which also benefits our own growth.

I am better when I lean on my tribe to fill in some gaps in my knowledge, or lean into being uncomfortable because there is a learning moment there. But being better is not about just learning. I find I am better when I meet someone new and develop a connection. I am better when I help someone or when someone helps me.

Never Stop LearniingI become better just by taking time for myself and reading a book or listening to a speaker that may give me a new perspective on a topic. I become better when I take a walk in nature to clear my head instead of ranting about an issue. Simple experiences have much to teach us when we are open to learning.

The Japanese concept of ichi-go ichi-e is the idea of treasuring the unrepeatable nature of each moment, but what if you expand that concept and apply it to learning something from every encounter you have? You may learn that you like someone that you’ve met and want to pursue something more than a superficial conversation. On the flip side you may decide that you don’t need to ever connect with them again. Either way you are better for what you have learned during the interaction.

How are you better today than yesterday?

“Each day, we have the opportunity to learn something new, apologize for our mistakes, and become better.” – Lewis Howes

Have a great weekend.

Vijay

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