Apprenticeship; the wisdom in learning from others as an entrepreneur

Every five years, knowledge in most major fields’ double. That means if you do not stay informed, you will be left behind. Repeating the same lessons over and over again though means you are not learning enough. The speed at which things change and new challenges evolve are so fast these days, with advancement in technology and the surge in customer awareness, needs and demands.

This is why, if you want to be successful in any venture, my advice is that you study those who have succeeded, or are succeeding where you want to succeed. There is no other efficient way to know what to do and what not to do in a cost and time effective manner. This is the wisdom behind apprenticeship, which sadly has been eroded in our entrepreneurial journey.  

Quoting Admiral Hyman Rickover of the U. S. Navy, “Learn from the mistakes of others because you will never live long enough to make them all yourself.”

To climb the next rung of the ladder as an entrepreneur, or on your career jourmey, use these three guidelines. 

1. Do not shrink away from people whose experience and expertise are greater than your own. We all struggle in certain areas. So, be proactive in asking for help and learning. Be careful so that your insecurity may not be misinterpreted as arrogance. 
2. Do not try to impress people by seeking to be their intellectual equal. If you find yourself in a discussion that intimidates you, listen carefully, ask questions, talk only about what you know and listen attentively to what you do not know. The next time you meet you will be that much further ahead with the new knowledge you would have acquired. 
3. Do not come to “class” unless you have done your homework.  When God starts taking you higher, prepare your speech, your wardrobe, and your mind. Consult a trusted friend who understands where you are and where you need to go. If you cannot find one, read up until you grasp the basics, or engage a Coach to help you through. In other words, be prepared for the success you crave.  

The more you prepare yourself, the more opportunities will come to you. These continue to be my experience *|FNAME|*,  so stop to introspect and be sure you’re not being arrogant and unteachable.

Be an apprentice. Learn from others and you will surely make it.