145: The Art of Letting Go: Why Unlearning Is as Important as Learning - by Teresa Huff

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We Constantly Talk About Learning. But What About Unlearning?

We all know lifelong learning matters. I'm constantly encouraging you to pick up new skills, strategies, and ways of thinking to stay sharp and relevant. But here's the thing—sometimes we need to let go of the old to make room for the new. As crucial as learning is, unlearning may be just as vital to our growth and ability to adapt.

When We're Stuck, It's Often Because We Need to Unlearn

I was thinking about this the other day and realized that when we try implementing new things but just can't move forward, it could be because we need to unlearn outdated habits or mindsets blocking our progress. If we want to reach the next level personally or professionally, we likely need to release our white-knuckled grip on the status quo. Because here's the hard truth: what got you here won't necessarily get you there. And what got you here will also keep you here.

Pursuing Innovation May Require Unlearning

For example, as you learn exciting new tools and strategies (like AI!), approach them with openness to unlearn any preconceived notions or processes that may close you off to new breakthroughs or ways of working. Don't let fear of the unknown prevent you from trying something new.

Signs You May Need to Unlearn Something:

• You complain about being stuck but keep doing the same things
• You resist feedback or suggestions from others
• You feel overwhelmed trying to learn new skills on top of old ones
• You find yourself thinking "I already know this" rather than actively listening

Why Unlearning Matters

The bottom line? Lifelong learning matters—and lifelong unlearning does too. Progress requires releasing comfortable but constraining ways of thinking and doing to create space for the new. Reexamine your assumptions, habits, and beliefs through curiosity, not defensiveness.

Unlearning Propels You Forward

Unlearning isn't easy, but it can propel you forward. By letting go, you make room for progress to grow. I believe in you, my friends!

 

To read today's full episode: The Art of Letting Go: Why Unlearning is as Important as Learning

To watch and share my TEDx Talk, The Real ROI of Grant Writing. 

Challenge Questions:

1. What old habits or mindsets can you let go of to pursue breakthroughs?
2. Where might you be clinging to the status quo out of fear?
3. How can you become more open to feedback and growth?

I’d love to hear about your work, so shoot me an email and let’s chat!

Resources Mentioned:

• Go to MyEasyGrant.com to find, cultivate, and apply to relevant foundations using Easy Grant by Sparrow Nonprofit Solutions.
• Watch and share my .css-j9qmi7{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;font-weight:700;margin-bottom:1rem;margin-top:2.8rem;width:100%;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:start;justify-content:start;padding-left:5rem;}@media only screen and (max-width: 599px){.css-j9qmi7{padding-left:0;-webkit-box-pack:center;-ms-flex-pack:center;-webkit-justify-content:center;justify-content:center;}}.css-j9qmi7 svg{fill:#27292D;}.css-j9qmi7 .eagfbvw0{-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;color:#27292D;}