As a two-time bestselling author and the CEO of Learnit, a live learning platform that has upskilled over two million people, Damon Lembi brings a wealth of experience and insights. Drawing from his past as a professional baseball player, he offers a unique perspective on what it takes to lead effectively and continuously learn in an ever-evolving world.
The Genesis of Learnit
The name “Learn It” itself speaks volumes about the mission behind the platform. Damon shares that the inception of Learnit came from his father's desire to solve a problem: the need for engaging and efficient computer training. Frustrated with traditional, boring classes, he envisioned a platform that would be accessible, fast, and effective. This vision has led to a thriving company that emphasizes continuous learning in various domains, from soft skills to technical training.
Learn It All vs. Know It All
One of the fascinating discussions during the podcast revolved around the difference between being a “learn it all” and a “know it all.” A know-it-all tends to be closed-minded, believing they have all the answers, which can lead to stagnation. In contrast, a learn-it- all embraces the idea that there’s always more to learn.
Damon emphasizes five key traits that define a learn-it-all leader:
Humility: Recognizing that you don't have all the answers.
Curiosity: Always asking questions and seeking new knowledge.
Courage: Being willing to make tough decisions and step out of your comfort zone.
Accountability: Taking responsibility for your actions and decisions.
Integrity: Upholding ethical standards, even when it's challenging.
These traits are not just essential for personal growth but are critical in fostering a productive team environment.
Lessons from Baseball
Damon’s background in baseball has profoundly influenced his leadership style. He reflects on how the sport taught him essential skills like collaboration, resilience, and discipline. With experiences from three Hall of Fame coaches, he learned valuable lessons on vision, tenacity, and courage. For instance, one coach set an ambitious goal of winning the College World Series, which inspired the team to aim high and work together towards a common vision.
Learning Agility
Among the most critical skills Damon emphasizes is learning agility—the ability to learn, unlearn, and apply new knowledge effectively. He compares this to a baseball player adjusting their swing based on feedback. In today’s fast-paced world, where AI and technology are rapidly changing the landscape, learning agility is vital for staying relevant.
Balancing Learning and Application
One challenge many face is finding the balance between learning and applying that knowledge. Damon suggests that simply attending conferences or reading books isn't enough; true growth comes from putting what you learn into practice.
He recommends a structured approach to applying new insights, which includes:
Identifying key takeaways from what you learn.
Creating actionable steps to implement those lessons.
Engaging your team in discussions about how to apply new knowledge.
The Power of Book Clubs
To reinforce learning within his organization, Damon has initiated book clubs where employees read selected books and discuss how they can apply the lessons to their work. This not only enhances retention but also fosters a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration.
Embracing Technology and AI
As a leader in the learning industry, Damon is keen on leveraging AI to enhance operations and improve the learning experience. He encourages his team to think creatively about how AI can assist in various tasks, enhancing productivity and efficiency. By embracing technology, organizations can level the playing field and focus on delivering value to their clients.
Creating a Psychologically Safe Space
One of the core principles Damon champions is the importance of creating a psychologically safe work environment. This means fostering an atmosphere where employees feel comfortable sharing ideas, providing feedback, and taking risks without fear of repercussions. By eliminating toxic behaviors and encouraging open communication, leaders can cultivate a culture that promotes innovation and trust.
Overcoming Impostor Syndrome
Impostor syndrome is a common hurdle for many professionals. Damon shares his personal experiences with it, especially during his transition from a successful baseball career to the corporate world.
He outlines a four-step framework for overcoming impostor syndrome:
Purposeful Awfulizing: Identify your fears and recognize that you can survive failure.
Hard Work: Commit to putting in the effort to improve your skills.
Deliberate Practice: Focus on areas where you struggle and work diligently to improve.
Learn and Let Go: Once it's time to perform, trust your preparation and give it your best shot.
Final Thoughts on Leadership
As we wrap up, Damon emphasizes that great leaders are not born; they are constantly evolving. He believes that anyone can achieve success through hard work, perseverance, and a willingness to learn. His humility and authenticity shine through as he encourages listeners to embrace their journeys, acknowledge their struggles, and continuously strive for personal and professional growth.
Connect with Damon Lembi
If you're inspired by Damon’s insights and want to learn more, you can connect with him on the Learnit website, or follow him on LinkedIn and Instagram. By embracing the principles of continuous learning, humility, and collaboration, you too can become a more effective leader and contribute positively to your organization.
Remember, the journey of leadership is ongoing, and every step you take brings you closer to your goals. So, let's go win!
Watch this full podcast episode on YouTube
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