The Lego Bricks Mentality

Learning adaptability and flexibility to unlock success.

Previously, on Giuseppe’s Glimpse: In the last episode, we tapped into insights from my chat with Seth Godin to explore the evolving landscape of marketing and retail, delving into the key principles to navigate the post-digital era. If you missed it, catch up here! 🎙️

Ever since I can remember, I've been a bit of a learning nerd. 🤓

I'm one of those always eager to dive into new subjects and experiences, driven by an insatiable curiosity to understand how things work and how I can apply that knowledge in the real world.

During my time at university, I dove deep into Marketing and Economics, eventually deciding to pursue a PhD in the field. But as I delved further into academia, I realised nothing compared to the thrill of applying theory to real-world situations and seeing its tangible impact firsthand.

Today, with over 15 years of teaching experience, I find myself with the great responsibility of guiding aspiring minds through the complexities of business innovation.

Through the years, I've come to realise that teaching isn’t merely about imparting knowledge; it's about cultivating a mindset of continual evolution and adaptation to our ever-changing world. 🌐 

After all, students are not vessels to be filled but torches to be lit.

As a marketing professor, it’s impossible to use the same syllabus year after year. The landscape is constantly evolving with new startups, case studies, technologies, and novel approaches to fulfilling people’s needs and desires. 

However, beyond imparting new concepts and notions, the critical focus for educators today should be fostering the right attitude to succeed in a volatile environment.

The Lego Bricks Mentality

In my lectures and talks, I often refer to this attitude as the "Lego Bricks Mentality". 🧱

Just like Lego bricks, we need to be adaptable and versatile while ensuring stability and resilience.

Quite a difference with how we were taught to build our careers, right? 

Back in the day, most of us were likely told some variation of these mantras: Study hard and you'll grant yourself a future. Get yourself a bachelor’s degree and you’ll be all set. Find a good job, and enjoy lifelong stability. 💼

However, this mindset assumes that the world is stable and predictable, thinking of the future as a linear evolution of the past. 

But there’s nothing further from the truth.

The world is changing rapidly, and success today requires flexibility, innovation, and a willingness to challenge the status quo.

Gone are the days of linear career paths; now, it's about embracing change and forging our own unique journeys.

Lifelong learning: The Singaporean example

Yet, as adults, most of us have a hefty amount of commitments and responsibilities to juggle with. 🤹‍♂️

Among the demands of mortgages, careers, and familial obligations, finding the time and resources for learning can be challenging.

In this context, the groundbreaking initiative spearheaded by Singapore in the realm of education innovation offers a beacon of hope and inspiration. 🌟

Acknowledging the seismic shifts unfolding in our world and the pivotal role of technology in driving progress, the Singaporean government has set up an innovative training program tailored for individuals over 40. 

The goal is to empower more seasoned citizens to thrive in the digital age by boosting their skill set and thus improving their employability (thanks to my friend Marco Bandini for sharing this insightful story!).

What’s the real goal of education?

This initiative highlights two crucial aspects of education that we often forget about.

Firstly, it reminds us that beyond the acquisition of skills and knowledge lies a deeper imperative – a call to cultivate a culture of lifelong learning, where wisdom is shared, and experience serves as a catalyst for innovation. 

Having a mix of people from various ages and backgrounds in a classroom creates a dynamic learning space, whereby we can bridge the gap between generations and tap into the collective wisdom of the past to build a brighter future for all. 🌱

Secondly, this project embodies the idea that what and how we teach shouldn’t be set in stone. 

While it’s important to learn from our past and not forget about our roots and traditions, we can't ignore the substantial changes happening in the world around us. 

We must be ready to embrace them and adapt rather than looking the other way and sticking to old ways of doing things.

Ultimately, isn't the goal of education to empower individuals with the tools they need to thrive in society and make a positive difference? 💫

So, as we reflect on the transformative power of education, let us remember that learning knows no bounds, and growth knows no age. 

Whether you're a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, the journey of discovery awaits. 

How do you envision education evolving in our rapidly changing world? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Stay curious! 🙌

-gs

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