Learn in Public, Read Better: A Path to Continuous Growth

Learn in Public, Read Better: A Path to Continuous Growth

In the world of learning, hustling, and creating, there is a contrasting approach: do in silence or show the process and progress publicly. While some believe in keeping their work hidden until it's perfected, others advocate for learning in public. The latter approach has proven to have numerous benefits such as creating accountability, building a feedback loop, seeing your progress, and establishing a community or following.

When we let go of our egos and share our process, it opens up the possibility for people to have an ongoing connection with us and our work. This connection helps us move forward and grow. Austin Kleon, in his book "Show Your Work!", emphasizes the importance of launching ourselves on the center stage, creating today, and creating in public. By doing so, we not only showcase our progress but also inspire others and build a network of support.

Journalist David Carr once said, "No one is going to give a damn about your résumé; they want to see what you have made with your own little fingers." This statement highlights the idea that creation is key. It's not just about showcasing the end product; it's about the process and the effort we put into our work. By focusing on creating something exceptional, people will naturally be drawn to our work.

Reading is another powerful tool for growth and learning. As Charlie Munger famously said, "In my whole life, I have known no wise people who didn't read all the time." Reading allows us to tap into the wisdom and knowledge of others, enabling us to master the best of what has already been figured out.

It's essential to approach reading with the right mindset. Start books quickly, but don't be afraid to give them up easily. Sometimes, our desire to finish what we start can hinder our progress. Good books have a way of finishing themselves; they captivate us and make it impossible to put them down. On the other hand, forcing ourselves to finish a bad book is like trudging through mud with a wheelbarrow full of bricks. Life is too short for that. Skim through books and only invest your complete attention in the ones that truly deserve it. And don't be afraid to re-read the best books twice. The value of a book lies not in the quantity you read but in the quality of what you absorb.

Reading speed is often seen as a vanity metric, as no one truly cares how fast you read or how many books you read in a year. What matters is what you retain and apply in the real world. The opportunity cost of reading something new is potentially missing out on re-reading the best book you've ever encountered. Each time you re-read a book, you gain new insights and deepen your understanding.

Writing about what you read is an excellent way to solidify your learning. The act of writing helps you discover gaps in your understanding and connect new knowledge to what you already know. Whether it's conventional note-taking or starting with a blank sheet, the goal is to integrate new knowledge and ensure a holistic comprehension of the subject matter.

Continuous learning is the key to personal and professional growth. It's a journey that requires an open mind and a thirst for knowledge. Reading is one of the most effective ways to learn, as it allows us to explore different perspectives, gain insights from others, and challenge our own beliefs.

To put these ideas into action, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Embrace learning in public: Share your process, progress, and creations with the world. By doing so, you not only hold yourself accountable but also inspire and connect with others who resonate with your work.

2. Be selective in your reading: Instead of focusing on the number of books you read, prioritize the quality of what you absorb. Skim through books, read a few thoroughly, and re-read the best ones to deepen your understanding.

3. Write about what you read: Whether it's in the form of notes, articles, or personal reflections, writing about what you read helps solidify your learning and uncover any gaps in your understanding. It also allows you to share your insights with others.

In conclusion, learning in public and reading better are two powerful approaches to continuous growth. By embracing these practices, we can create accountability, build a network of support, tap into the wisdom of others, and deepen our understanding of the world. Remember, the key to success lies not just in what we create or read, but in how we apply and share our knowledge with others.