The futurist Alvin Toffler forewarned the world that the illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn and relearn.

Life is for learning, yet why is it life-long?

Because life does not happen to you, it happens for you! Every step of the way.

It’s a continuous never-ending journey allowing us to navigate our way in, through and between the phases of aspiration, success and learning. Failure only rears its head when we do not learn.

Learning is most rapid during our formative years. Its timeous as the young mind is at the apex of its enquiring nature.

Learning should ‘ground’ us and further provide a life-long platform for us to draw from while we embrace a growth mind-set.

But to banish illiteracy? Perhaps easier said than done, after all we are humans.

Why then, after the learning, is there a reluctance and resistance to unlearn and relearn?

Do we morph into becoming too clever for ourselves or allow for the more comfortable option of allowing ourselves to be controlled by our habits?

We shouldn’t settle for the comfort zone judging by the startling fact that within 5 years of obtaining your tertiary qualification the ‘knowledge’ you sweated for is barely relevant.

Learning organisations are very aware that the path to progress in today’s world is dependent on the discipline of learning, supported by the coach-like qualities of its leaders and main influencers.

Don’t fall into the illusionary trap whereby today’s success inadvertently inhibits tomorrows progress. What got you there will not keep you there.

You are what you work to become, day by day. It may be hard work although it’s worth it.

I am the author of Leading Self and Others (how to make a difference where you are with what you’ve got) and Teaming with ideas (life lessons in teams- from business, sport and parkrun). You can contact me here.