Developing a Personal Learning Strategy for Growth and Advancement

Successful leaders continually learn, reinvent themselves, and stay open to new and different ways of doing things. In this episode of The Forward Thinking podcast, host Stephanie Barton, VP of Marketing and Communications at FCCS, is joined by Michele Padilla, Director, and Senior Leadership Consultant for FCCS and instructor and facilitator for the FCCS Leading Self and Leading Leaders Journeys. Together they discuss personal learning strategies- what they are, why they're important, and how forward-thinking leaders can get started on taking control of their learning today.

Episode Insights Include:

The importance of a personal learning strategy

• A personal learning strategy identifies what a person's learning needs are.

• It also considers the conditions, resources, and support an individual needs to improve performance.

• Personal learning strategies hone in on the key topics that need to be focused on.

• These strategies can be connected to your company's vision but should remain applicable to the individual.

How to get started on an intentional strategy

• Think of your strategy like a roadmap that highlights your intentional goals and success drivers.

• Deliberate practice is essential to progress.

• Constantly put into practice the things you are learning at every available opportunity.

• Highlight one or two areas to focus on first and be realistic in your aspirations.

The benefits of getting your manager involved

• Identify your resources and the support that you will need to meet your goals.

• Communicate your learning strategy with HR and other advisors.

• Clearly define your goals and the resources that will help you reach each one.

Achieving professional and personal goals

• The personal learning strategy can help you both at work and in your personal life.

• Attainable goals are key in any area where you are hoping to see growth.

• The same process works in both personal and professional strategies.

• Find an accountability partner that can help you get started.

Adjusting your goals as needed

• Expect the unexpected and approach your goals with flexibility.

• Review your strategy often to adjust as needed.

• Accept needed adjustments and then get back on track as quickly as possible.

Best practices for your personal learning strategy

• Be committed to your efforts and stay the course in order to achieve your goal.

• Be consistent and practice, practice, practice.

• Share your goals and ask for accountability from others.

• Identify key markers that will highlight your success along the way.

• Outline a realistic timeline for achieving your goals.

Avoiding the common pitfalls

• Remember the reason that you developed your personal learning strategy and stick to it.

• Keep your personal wellness at the top of your mind in all that you do.

• Stay focused on your path and engaged in your goal efforts.

• Don't overcomplicate your efforts- keep it simple and know that there are steps you have to take along the way to reach your goals.

This podcast is powered by FCCS.

Resources

Learn more about the Leading Self Leadership Journey program - https://www.fccsconsulting.com/leadership-development/leading-self.

Connect with Michele Padilla - https://www.fccsconsulting.com/consulting-network/michele-padilla

Get in touch

info@fccsconsulting.com