Update your skills inline with current market demands and stay one step ahead

In today’s society, everyone should think about “future proofing” themselves. There was a time when leaving school marked the end of education. Unfortunately this is not the case today. What you know, understand and can do quickly becomes obsolete when you start working. Everyone needs to keep learning so that they can face the changes, new developments and standards of work.

Health workers have a special need to keep their skills sharp. According to The Journal of Continuing Education in the Health Profession, educational activities in the healthcare profession should, “… be focused on developing a multi-perspective and associated tools, including leadership tools, appropriate feedback mechanisms and strategies for conflict identification and resolution.”*

You may have heard the adage, “use it or lose it” in many different ways. Well, learning is like any other skill; You must often use your learning skills to keep your brain tuned for the possibility of learning. It is necessary:

• Practice your skills – read, watch, listen, work with other people, ask questions, solve problems, share ideas, take courses.

•Stay organized – make sure you have everything you need, including time and space

•Get Support – Be courageous in asking for help

• Review what you learn – it’s easier to forget than to remember

• Identify what motivates you – keep reminding yourself why you are learning and what you want to achieve in the end.

Invent your skills at least twice a year. Set goals to develop your technical and interpersonal skills to be the most valuable asset to your patients and your team. Check out next month’s article on how to set and achieve “smart” goals.