In business, and in adulthood, we often have the habit of making things way more complicated than they should be. Children, especially the littlest of kids, have such a simple way of looking at the world that we lose as we get older. They’re chatty, inquisitive, and always amazed at their surroundings. What would happen if we take a child’s outlook and apply it to our business?
Here are three business lessons we can learn from a three year old:
Always ask “why?” Little kids are full of questions, but parents will likely tell you that most common is the never ending questioning of “why”? Take a cue from a three year old and don’t operate your business on autopilot. You likely have vendors and internal departments continually making suggestions for your business operations. Sure, they may be guiding you in the right direction, but don’t just nod and go on your way. Make sure you’re asking “why?” every step of the way so that there is a reason and purpose behind every action you take. Then, take it even further – when was the last time you asked yourself why you’re in this business in the first place?
Never stop being amazed. Young children can sit and stare at a shiny object or turn a simple cardboard box into hours and hours of playtime fun. Once we stop finding wonder in the things around us, we stop thinking creatively and we stop feeling passionate about what we do. Though it’s not always easy, try to occasionally look at the world, and your business, with your rose-colored glasses. Go ahead, find something that amazes you and see how far a little inspiration can take you.
Don’t be afraid of something new. When you’re three years old, a whole lot of the world consists of new things. If you’re constantly afraid as a kid, just think of all the cool things you would miss out on – jumping off the swing set and eating glue, for starters. Well, maybe not the eating glue part. Operate your small business with that same fearlessness. Make it a point to step outside of your comfort zone on a regular basis. Maybe try your hand at blogging or take on a speaking engagement.
What other business lessons can be learned from a three year old?
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