One benefit of current technology is the opportunity of learning from wise people of another time or place. One of my favorites is Jim Rohn. He said:
“Nothing is more powerful for your future than being a gatherer of good ideas and information.”
Here are some of my thoughts about the hallmarks of a teachable person.
An attitude of humility: I can learn from anyone and am willing to stand corrected about my views.
Eagerness to know more and a plan to do so.
A commitment to asking questions of people that I meet.
Conversation is an opportunity for free education. Every person has something to offer. I once sat on a plane with a man who was a pediatric cardiac surgeon. In response to my questions, he explained some of the physical challenges in his profession. He also described the interpersonal dynamics of helping the parents of the children in need of delicate, life-saving surgery on their tiny hearts. Now, when I hear of a baby or child needing heart surgery, this surgeon has opened up my perspective about that process.
In conversations, we hear with our ears, but we listen with our hearts.
