Self-Directed

When it comes to getting better, either as individuals or as organizations, most of us understand that there is an element of learning involved.  

Ideally, it looks something like this:

1. We clarify what we want to accomplish, specify where it is we want to go
2. We reflect on what we know or how we performed
3. We assess whether or not we've met our expectations accordingly
4. We put a plan in place to either improve on the performance or correct underperformance
5. We act on that plan (not put it in a three-ring binder and store it on a shelf)
6. Back to Step 1 - regularly, frequently, habitually, intentionally

One word seems to capture this whole process nicely - LEARNING!

The best learning is self-directed and intrinsically motivated.  Words we often equate with learning, such as "training," "workshops," "classes," "professional development," "in-service," etc. imply that learning is something that others do to us or do for us.  It's almost as if we abdicate the responsibility for our learning to someone else, as if we're at the mercy of others to affect OUR learning.  

Nope! 

Getting better, every day, on purpose, best occurs when WE initiate and engage our learning in a self-directed manner, not waiting for someone else to do it to us or for us.

Learn on!