During my teenage years, a good friend asked me to help his younger brother with his studies. I agreed. These sessions lasted for no longer than a week. Thankfully so, because after 1st day of teaching I realized that this was the last thing I wanted to do.
As a person, I want to give things another shot. So couple of years later I found myself teaching two students to make some pocket money. As a 16 year old this sounded like a good option. This was around same time I started Expert Minds, my 1st start-up.
This time around the experience was slightly better than my 1st brush with teaching. May be because there was a sense of responsibility as I was being paid; and also because I had already gone through the ordeal (for me) once.
In the years ahead, opportunities came my way to – not exactly teach – but to be on a public platform and share ideas. I started enjoying it. This experience also made me realize the problem was not as much with teaching but with the topic I had to teach earlier. Same old β doing what you love β thing.
I also realized that sharing ideas is a fantastic way to learn about a new topic, know more about something you already know; also to find clarity and chance upon interesting ideas.
If you choose to share ideas or mentor somebody see that you know the topic and enjoy sharing it. I enjoy talking about start-ups, writing, self improvement, giving shape to new ideas and using social software and technology for a brandβs growth.
I believe in a style of teaching that is personal. Where ideas are shared and there is a lot of back and forth communication. When I share something with perspective of teaching I like to leave a lot of room for exploration – letting the learner do it at their own pace.
For example entrepreneurship cannot be taught; one can just share some ideas, hold hands and suggest avoiding some pitfalls. You need to do it your own way, fight your own fears and move ahead in a way that is unique to you.
Moreover there is not a single way of doing things right. There may be two paths leading to the same destination – time, resources that you take to finally arrive may be different.
Best part is that you do not teach only but learn also.
Have you tried teaching ever in formal or causal setting, what is your take? Some more points.
Dear Mohit,
It seems you have nice experience with teaching. Here is one more student for you myself. Give me some lession plan, waiting.
Thanks. Lessons coming your way π
Hi Mohit,
I feel happy, when I explain, anything I know, to anybody. It gives confidence and more over this the hold of your’s at the topic as well. every time you do the same thing it gives a better finish to the skills. I mean the knowledge of things,soft skills,makes you interactive and prompt problem solving.
I have been tasting this wonderful experience. As I am still doing it to make some pocket money π
GOOD LUCK !
Happy Writing π
Hey Puneet, thanks for sharing and your wishes. Wish that you find joy in things you do.