Teachable in the dictionary means to learn by example or experience. Being a teachable person is one who is willing to learn and desires to be better. A teachable person realizes there is probably a better way to do things and is happy to learn those ways and tries implementing them.
Developing the “teachable” trait is also a difficult thing to do at times, or for some, ever. Being teachable, however, can positively affect our home, work, marriage, family, friend relationships, as well as, acquaintances! It allows us to see other’s opinions and ideas as valid and important. A teachable person avoids the trap of thinking they are the only ones who can do anything right.
I have a friend who said that early in her marriage, she hated the way her husband loaded the dishwasher. He put all the plates and cups in the wrong spot and she constantly had to redo his efforts, taking twice as long to do the chore. Eventually, the husband stopped doing dishes. When she asked him about his lack of help with dishes he responded, “I do it wrong, why bother?”
It was then that she realized her inability to value his efforts or see his “way” as at least acceptable, had in reality hurt her. She was no longer getting help with the dishes because she couldn’t see past her way of doing things. It was a lesson learned that there’s more than one way to load a dishwasher and the most important part was that she be open to help even if it wasn’t done her way.
Think of how frustrating it can be dealing with someone who can’t see past their own view. On the contrary, think of someone who is always appreciative of other’s insights and seems to be on a mission of improvement. Which one are you? Robert Steuer, in the article Being Teachable, stated, “Some of us, rather than follow instructions or change ourselves, would simply like to change the rules.”
We owe it to ourselves and those around us to have a willingness to learn. To learn from mistakes or avoid mistakes by heeding advice and following the example of others. Realizing that there is “more than one way to load the dishwasher” will free us of our pride and allow us to form deeper relationships with those we love. We might, in turn, learn something in the process!
Learn more about how to organize your day and other Balance & Harmony topics with the links below!
Author, Trainer, Life Organizer®
Melinda Smith, CPO® organizes and executes action plans, training, and consulting. Great referrals are business owners, executives, and companies looking for sustainable change. Above all, she can help create a more productive work, a happy home, and a prosperous you.
Especially relevant is the fact that Melinda has worked with companies and individuals for over 20 years. Conducting workshops across the East Coast, they include over 60 cities in 19 states. Equally important focus topics include Strategic Thinking, Teambuilding, and Organization. As well as Balance Strategies, Stress Management, and Embracing Change.
After all, Melinda was one of the first 200 in the nation to achieve a Certified Professional Organizer status. In addition, she is also a graduate of the Western School of Feng Shui (pronounced feng shway).
Melinda has owned Balance & Harmony 360², Inc., since 2003. She is also the author of The Complete Guide for Balance & Harmony OWL Kit. In addition, this kit consists of a book, workbook, and F.O.C.U.S. Journal as well as five products to help organize Work, Home, and You.
Finally, if you are not convinced we can help you, please check more about our company with the links below.
Melinda’s training, books, consulting, advising, and speaking options, as well as where to purchase, visit:
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