You need to be open-minded in order to succeed in business as well as in life. To prosper, you must be open to learning — which means being a student.
“Formal education will make you a living, self-education will make you a fortune,”Johnna Parr is the author of “When the Dream is Big Enough.”
Parr, an entrepreneur who has a network marketing company that is successful with her husband Matt, never considered herself a good learner. When she tried to start her own business, Parr realized that she had to learn from the successful.
“I listened and took in all of the knowledge of the leaders of the business,”Parr. “I took the notes, reviewed them and implemented what I had learned.”
Parr is now more of a teacher than a student, helping other entrepreneurs realize their goals. What is the number one thing she advises budding entrepreneurs? They need to be teachable.
Parr states that every business person experiences different stages of learning.
Stage 1 “I know nothing.”People who start a new job are often enthusiastic learners. They listen to audios, attend conference calls and read books, and they follow industry leaders’ formulas. Their businesses grow. However, no one can stay in this stage for ever.
Stage 2 “I know everything.”Everyone eventually reaches this stage, often ending up in bankruptcy. “Some people mistakenly believe that if they accomplish a goal, or have some success, they no longer have to learn or grow,”Parr. This stagnant mindset can lead to stagnant businesses. Know-it alls either stop being know it alls or fail.
Stage 3 “I don’t know everything.”These entrepreneurs are able to bring great ideas to the table but also appreciate the contributions of others. They are open to new ideas and work in creative partnerships. They are excellent students and good teachers. They have a belief in themselves, and they are able to work together to resolve important issues.
People are not born with the business skills that will make them successful. To be successful in business requires a willingness to learn and the ability to teach others. These qualities are essential for achieving your dreams.
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