The Art of Learning in Public: Building, Writing, and Growing

The Art of Learning in Public: Building, Writing, and Growing

Learning in public is a concept that challenges our natural fear of judgment and encourages us to share our progress with others. It is a way to tap into the collective intelligence of our network and create constructive feedback loops. The goal is not seeking validation but rather embracing the opportunity to learn and grow through public engagement.

When it comes to learning in public, one effective way is to work on a project you own and share your progress openly. Instead of simply saying, "I learned this," focus on saying, "I built this." By keeping a public log of what you build, you can track your learning progress and invite others to contribute their insights. As Reid Hoffman, the co-founder of LinkedIn, once said, "If you are not embarrassed by the first version of your product, you've launched too late." Embrace the vulnerability of sharing your knowledge and allow it to fuel your growth.

Writing is another avenue through which we can learn and express ourselves in public. Tim Urban, the creator of Wait But Why, provides insightful advice on writing. He emphasizes the importance of experimentation and finding your unique voice. It takes time to develop your style, tone, and approach. If something isn't working, don't be afraid to rewrite, start over, or try a new approach. Keep fiddling until you find what clicks for you.

Reading is an essential companion to writing. Urban compares it to fertilizer, nourishing and enriching your writing skills. He suggests finding a balance between imitation and innovation. Start by imitating writers you admire, even mimicking their style and wording. Then, gradually evolve into your own unique voice. Your goal is to start in the middle and work your way up the scale as you mature as a writer. Reading widely exposes you to different writing styles and helps you find inspiration for your own growth.

While feedback is valuable for writers, it's crucial to consider the source. Seek feedback from individuals who believe in you, root for you, and understand that what they're reading is not your best work but rather a part of your experimentation and growth process. The quality of ideas behind your writing holds more significance than the quality of the writing itself. It's better to have great ideas and pretty good writing than the other way around.

Incorporating these principles of learning in public and honing your writing skills can have a profound impact on your personal and professional growth. Here are three actionable pieces of advice to help you on this journey:

1. Embrace vulnerability and share your progress: Find a project you are passionate about and share your journey openly. By inviting others to witness your growth and contribute their insights, you create a constructive feedback loop that accelerates your learning.

2. Experiment and refine your writing: Don't be afraid to try new approaches, rewrite parts, and start over. It takes time to find your voice and style. Keep fiddling until you discover what resonates with you and your audience.

3. Seek feedback from supportive individuals: When receiving feedback on your writing, choose people who believe in your potential and understand that you are still exploring your voice. Their insights can guide you towards improvement without stifling your creativity.

Learning in public and developing your writing skills may seem daunting, but the rewards are worth it. By embracing vulnerability, experimenting, and seeking feedback from the right sources, you can unlock your potential and make a lasting impact with your work. So, take that leap, share your progress, and let the world be a part of your journey towards growth and mastery.