Some time ago, a friend of mine told me she had hit rock bottom. She had gotten rid of everything in her life, returned to her home country in America, and later came back to Europe under difficult circumstances. Her story surprised me because, from the outside, it seemed like there was no way out. But she was determined to change everything: she wanted to start her own business.
A year passed after that conversation, and when I saw her again, she had done it. Her business was up and running. She told me how she had worked tirelessly, saved every penny, taken out loans, and learned how to run her business formally. It wasn’t an easy journey—there were critical health challenges, days of exhaustion, but also satisfaction at the end of the road.
Her transformation made me think: what exactly did she do to succeed? I find myself on a similar path, wondering if I can learn from experiences like hers, but there is a barrier: the fear of seeming intrusive, the doubt of whether I’ll ever have access to that kind of wisdom.
This raises an important question:
What do we do when we want to learn from others but feel we don’t have direct access to their experiences? Can we take advantage of the content others share or create our own learning networks?
The Power of Shared Stories
We often think that the only way to learn from someone is if they give us their time and guide us personally. But the truth is, stories and experiences shared by others are everywhere: in books, interviews, social media, and even casual conversations.
Collective knowledge is one of the most powerful tools for personal and professional growth. When someone shares their journey, they don’t just inspire individuals—they contribute to the growth of an entire community.
For example, many successful entrepreneurs weren’t experts when they started their businesses. This shows that you don’t always need someone physically guiding you. The lessons are available—you just need to be willing to search for them and connect them to your own experiences.
How Learning Networks Can Boost Your Growth
What Are Learning Networks?
Learning networks are connections, formal or informal, through which we acquire knowledge from others. These networks can be found online (forums, digital communities, webinars) or in physical spaces (events, mentoring groups, book clubs).
Why Are They So Powerful?
Because they don’t just involve sharing information; they create an environment where experiences become practical lessons. When you expose yourself to different perspectives, you gain the chance to find solutions to your own challenges.
In my case, even though I still find it hard to ask for advice directly, I’ve started exploring resources shared by successful people and participating more in events. By reading or listening to their stories, I see my fears reflected, but I also discover strategies that I can apply. This has helped me better understand my own growth process.
Practical tips to build your learning network:
- Join online communities: Find forums or groups on social media related to your interests.
- Attend local events or workshops: Never underestimate the value of a face-to-face conversation.
- Consume diverse content: Podcasts, blogs, and books can open doors to new ideas.
- Create your own learning circle: Connect with people who have similar goals and share insights regularly.
Learning networks are not just spaces to receive information—they are places where you can share, experiment, and grow alongside others.
Writing as a Tool for Reflection and Learning
One of the most powerful tools to consolidate what we learn is writing. It’s not about being a professional writer or publishing a book—it’s about using writing as a way to reflect and gain self-awareness.
When we write about our experiences, we process emotions, identify patterns, and organize our thoughts. Writing helps us see things more clearly and recognize achievements that we often overlook.
In my case, keeping a journal of what I’ve learned has been transformative. As I write down small achievements and daily challenges, I realize how much progress I’m making, even when I feel stuck.
Some benefits I’ve experienced from this process:
- Deep reflection: You understand what works and what doesn’t.
- Self-compassion: You recognize the effort behind every step, even the small ones.
- Long-term memory: Important lessons stick when you write them down.
I believe we only need to dedicate about 10 minutes a day to writing about something we’ve learned or felt. Even if no one else reads it, it will be a valuable tool for personal growth.
The Power of Sharing (and daring to ask)
This process of exploring stories, connecting with learning networks, and writing my own thoughts has taught me something important: learning doesn’t just come from the outside—it’s also within us.
The inspiration I found in this person wasn’t just about admiring her; it was about understanding that her story also gave me permission to write my own.
So, the conclusion is: don’t be afraid to seek out stories that inspire you, but don’t forget to write your own story too. If you ever doubt yourself, remember that every small experience counts, and every question you ask brings you one step closer to change.
Join a Supportive Community
To further support your journey in developing positive habits, consider using Deeditt, a mobile app where people can share positive thoughts and learn from each other's experiences. Being part of a community that fosters positive change can provide you with the encouragement and motivation you need. On Deeditt, you can connect with like-minded people, celebrate your achievements, and find inspiration in the successes and strategies of others. Embrace the power of community and make your habit-forming journey even more rewarding with Deeditt.
Fostering a Positive Mindset
At Deeditt, we are committed to supporting your journey of personal growth and positive thinking. We believe in creating a genuine community where mutual support is our greatest strength. We are here to listen to your feedback and suggestions, and we always welcome a simple "hello." Together, we can share our experiences, celebrate our victories, and overcome our challenges. Join us on this journey and let's support each other in fostering a positive mindset and continuous personal development. Your feedback and participation are what make this community strong and vibrant.
Photo by Iñaki del Olmo on Unsplash