Often compounding is associated with wealth. But compounding applies to knowledge or learning, resulting in what Adam Singer refers to in this blog as the accelerated learning curve which is exponential and not linear. He builds on the premise that real insight often is a result of connecting the dots or what he refers to as intersectionality. In this blog, he shares his thoughts on what we can do to get ourselves on to this accelerated learning curve.
He starts with the workplace, given that’s where we end up spending most of our waking hours. He recommends evaluating our workplace in terms of its ability to provide a platform for learning, else quit.
“Overall, you need to be in a role that nurtures an accelerated learning curve, especially while young. An easy way to know this if you’re unsure is the following thought exercise: if you don’t think you’ve learned more in the last year than you have in the previous 3, it’s time for a new position. The whole idea of an accelerated learning curve is you cannot be stagnating. Who would want this anyway?
Remember, the real value of your job or even business you own is not about how much money you make (after needs are taken care of) but how much you learn. That is, if you care to be on an accelerated learning curve. I didn’t say this was for everyone (some people do just want more money, they’ll eventually learn why that’s silly, some on their death bed).”
Second, we should look for sources of learning (books, podcasts, blogs, etc) beyond our work sphere, increasing the potential for intersectionality.
“An intake of knowledge without necessarily being required to do anything with it is powerful and allows you to reflect and contemplate versus apply. You mostly don’t get to do this in educational institutions and structured settings: in most areas of learning, there is always a “next step” with data or ideas you take in. But not all learning should necessarily be like this especially if nurturing cross-domain creativity is desired. Instead, this type of knowledge acquisition is part of a broader mix of tactics.”
Third, we should connect with people from various paths of life:
“In Richard Florida’s book, Who’s Your City, the central theme is simple: the creative economy is making where to live the most important decision of your life. That’s because you need to be surrounded by others who motivate and push you to higher levels of success. Equally important, learning from others in 1-1 or small group situations presents opportunities far beyond that of larger classrooms. Developing these types of relationships is an integral step to being on an accelerated learning curve.”
In addition, he recommends making art, documenting our learnings and teaching or mentoring as other aids that can accelerate our learning curve.
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Note: The above material is neither investment research, nor financial advice. Marcellus does not seek payment for or business from this publication in any shape or form. The information provided is intended for educational purposes only. Marcellus Investment Managers is regulated by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and is also an FME (Non-Retail) with the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) as a provider of Portfolio Management Services. Additionally, Marcellus is also registered with US Securities and Exchange Commission (“US SEC”) as an Investment Advisor.
