Learning is no longer a phase in our life, something we do before we start working.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The digital revolution, while creating new jobs and commercial opportunities, also demands new skills that in turn undergo constant change at increasing speed. Continuous learning is therefore a life-long theme we must embrace if we are to remain relevant in the world of work and business, and sustain ourselves into the future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The theme of continuous learning applies equally to the business family. The family education programme<\/em> is where the business family\u2019s commitment to life-long learning finds expression. While there is a wealth of literature advising on how to structure and populate such a programme, the implementation requires time and resources beyond the means of business families located in our townships and rural areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n So where and how do you start?<\/p>\n\n\n\n As a leader of a business family I never ask of my family what I am not capable or prepared to do myself. In this instance look within and ask yourself whether your personal values include a life-long commitment to learning? Are you curious by nature? Do you explore new ideas and embrace input from those who may know more than you?<\/p>\n\n\n\n Your job as a family leader is to develop a culture of learning not only within yourself but also within your family. You must lead by example, share ideas and information of interest to the family and the members you are engaging. Books, blogs, news articles, podcasts, and YouTube videos to name but a few are all valid sources of learning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Learning is not confined to the classroom, or college and university lecture room. Start at the kitchen table. Share with your family, whether your children, brothers and sisters, aunts, uncles and cousins. It is your responsibility as a family leader to create an environment that supports the sharing and free flow of ideas within the family. An environment that is safe, supportive and non-judgemental. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Once you have unlocked the creative juices of your family, shape the conversation and start the business family learning journey with these opening themes:<\/p>\n\n\nDevelop a learning culture<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Start the conversation<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n