Revive your zest for learning

Today is my birthday. December is an exciting month to celebrate a birthday because even the grouchiest of scrooges is a little happier.

Decorations spring up everywhere and there are parties every night.

Most people view their birthday as a time for others to show their love and appreciation for them. 

But it is also a day of celebration and reflection.

As the numbers on the birthday reel spin larger, we also recognize with each passing year that our time on this earth is nearer ending than the beginning. So why is it that as we progress through life our zest for learning and achieving diminishes?

We give in to the everyday, ordinary grind of work and bill paying and spend less time on self-development.

Seemingly, the less time we spend on self-development, the more time we spend analyzing and criticizing others.

Self-development

But the more energy we devote to creating a synergy between mind, body and soul, the shortcomings of others become less noticeable.

Zen moment aside, there are other reasons to focus on self-development. 

First, as we are forecast to enter a year that will see the economy fall deeper into recession, the pressure to be competitive in the workplace will increase.

Any firm tasked with reducing expenses will consider cutting the employee count.

This may not always be the best solution but from an employer’s perspective it is often a quick and effective way to reduce the overhead expenses of payroll.

When the decisions to reduce the head count are being made, employers will analyze their current pool of employees and put them into general categories, including those who put in the minimum effort required to maintain employment, those who expend the effort necessary to carry out their job effectively and those who possess a clear desire to learn, improve their skills and excel.

Secondly, as Bermuda continues to work to maintain its status as a key player in the competitive world of international business and finance, Bermudians have a ­responsibility to provide a reliable, intelligent and competent labour force.

If we do not provide this labour pool it will be imported. If it cannot be imported, the firms will move to where they can receive the support to operate effectively. 

Rather than begrudge imported labour, we would be better served by setting the highest standards possible to present to these firms when they are looking to hire.

We should also be lobbying for clear and achievable leadership development processes so that there is a talent pool for the top roles. Someday we may actually establish, manage and develop our inter-national business marketplace rather that watch the tide ebb and flow from our shores to other countries.

Finally, the more energy we devote to our own personal development, the more ­fulfilled we will feel. Fulfillment creates confidence, confidence creates progress, progress creates success.

This chain of achievement will work to your advantage throughout your career, regardless of who your employer may be.

It is my wish that during this year-end reflection we will all set our individual goals and in unison develop our country though our collective achievements.

Felicia Rickards is president of Linkage Bermuda, a global company specializing in leadership development. She also has a Masters degree in human resources and business development and is a certified life coach.

E-mail [email protected]