Learning something new is always a great idea, yet we often forget that it is just as valuable to pass on our own knowledge. Use this weekend to help someone else level up their skills.
Other than the obvious benefits to the student, the teacher (You, in this case) will also be getting a return on the time investment. It is a great way to improve your leadership skills, because you will need to be patient but also firm and guide without overstepping. You will also be able to see things differently. If you have been doing something for a long time, you have probably forgotten what it was like being a newbie and having to hold someone else’s hand while they take their first steps might help you see newer and better ways of doing things. Which means you will also practice empathy and compassion, getting out of your own head will probably give you an unexpected mental health boost.
If you have no idea where to start or think there’s nothing you can add to anyone else’s body of knowledge, we’re here to help you.
HELP OUT A FRIEND
Start with a friend, since they will be the easiest to reach and the least judgemental. Your chosen skill might be Dutch braids or tuning a car, whatever it is, find something you are already good at and offer to show a pal how it is done. Once you are done asking for constructive feedback, be open to new ways of explaining and try to fine tune your technique.
START THEM YOUNG
Or think small and find a young child who wants to learn how to ride a bike or learn how to make lunch on their own. It’s an opportunity for bonding and quality time and you will definitely feel better once you are done knowing that you helped someone level up in the game of life. Teaching children at a young age how to do basic life things, such as doing up their own shoe laces, putting away their dinner plate to something more complicated like how to figure out a tough Algebra equation is invaluable. Don’t be surprised to learn a few new things yourself (mostly, patience!), as this is a knowledge trip with gains for both parties.
GIVE YOUR ELDERS THE COMPETITIVE EDGE
Moving up the age ladder, are your parents. It could also be an aunt or a grandparent. Your mom taught you how to use a spoon and blow your nose and it is your turn to return the favor when she asks you to help her navigate TikTok Block out some time to show her how to clean up her phone or program her streaming service so she can watch her favorite shows. Most importantly, you can teach your elder relatives about Internet fraud and safe smartphone practices. Even better, take up a new hobby together and you can both learn something new! It’s a sweet gesture and an exercise in humility because it will remind you that we need each other.
DON’T FORGET ABOUT YOUR PEERS
We can’t ignore the workplace. If your company doesn’t already have a training program, you could offer to show your colleagues how you use Excel like a boss or present a summary on the latest industry specific book that you’ve read. Mentor a student or fresh graduate in your field to help them get ahead. Basically, be the role model you always wanted to have. Creating an environment of knowledge sharing is great for morale and will help you move up in your career too. We’re constantly learning from each other at bazaar, from life hacks to video editing tips, and together we’ve grown into the strong and agile team we are today. You can dedicate blocks of time throughout the month to discuss new learning practices, fine tune your internal systems, or simply share cool ideas you’ve seen elsehwere.
Time and knowledge are sacred, and while minutes and hours are finite, mastery and expertise grow when shared.
Photo by Science in HD on Unsplash.
