What Business Leaders Can Learn from Kids

We tend to think that as we get older, we get wiser. While that it generally true, we need to remember that we can still learn a lot from kids to be successful in business. In fact, in business, we should never forget important lessons that we learned in childhood.

In this article, you will find out some of the most important lessons industry leaders, team managers, and business leaders can learn from kids.

Important Lessons Children Can Teach Business Leaders

Running a business is rarely thought of as being “child’s play.” However, taking lessons from children can help to embrace the challenges that running a business or managing a team can bring. Here are 7 of the most important ones:

Honesty

Most children are inherently honest and like to tell it as they see it. This honest communication is often the basis for funny stories and can sometimes be embarrassing. However, genuine communication is needed in the business place. Of course, a child’s honesty is sometimes because they don’t foresee the consequences of their actions. However, being true to your beliefs and what you expect from others is an important lesson we can learn from kids.

Take calculated risks

Kids seems to be always willing to get out their comfort zone and take risks. They do this no matter if they are competent or incompetent at the task they want to perform. Of course, with any risk, comes the chance of failure but risks are sometimes the only way to learn something new. So, try to take some more risks and don’t fear failure. This could be something as simple as accepting innovative ideas from team members or allowing staff member to use their creativity.

Say “please” and “thank you”

Another useful lesson successful team leaders can learn from kids is to say “please” and “thank you” often. Adults usually try to instil politeness in children as they grow then tend to forget this in the stress of the workplace. Even though you have employee under your supervision, saying please may encourage your staff to try harder. When a job or task has been completed well or if the employee has put forth effort, remember to thank them for their dedication.

Ask questions

Children never seem to stop asking questions and it’s something that managers and leaders can learn from. We can fall into the trap of thinking that asking questions is a sign of weakness. However, asking questions strengthens relationships because you spend time listening. Also, when the other person feels genuine interest, they are more inclined to improve in the tasks that they have been assigned.

Acknowledge your emotions

An important lesson we all can learn from kids is to acknowledge and express your emotions. Children usually let you know if they are happy, sad, angry, or confused. Of course, some outbursts of emotions like anger, frustration, or sadness need to be channelled properly or they can damage relationships. However, accepting your emotions as well as other people’s emotions is important in the work place.

Be willing to learn

Children usually love learning and will always be willing to try out new ideas. In fact, kids will usually not wait to be told what to do before they try out new experiences. Having this kind of mindset can prevent you from being stuck in a rut in your business. For example, you need to be willing to learn and use new technology to take advantage of the latest innovations. This can give you the edge over your competitors.

Embrace new experiences