The Power of Teachability
John Maxwell emphasizes that teachability is what separates those who maximize their potential from those who plateau. As he states in the book:
"Everything we know we learned from someone else!"
The principle of teachability expands your talent by keeping you open to new ideas, different perspectives, and continuous learning. It's about maintaining a growth mindset throughout your life and career.
Key Characteristics of Teachable People
- They remain curious and ask questions
- They listen more than they talk
- They admit when they don't know something
- They seek feedback and learn from criticism
- They observe before acting in new situations
- They're willing to change their opinions based on new information
The Teachability Assessment
Maxwell provides these self-assessment questions to evaluate your teachability:
Ask Yourself: Am I Really Teachable?
- Am I open to other people's ideas?
- Do I listen more than I talk?
- Am I open to changing my opinion based on new information?
- Do I readily admit when I am wrong?
- Do I observe before acting on a situation?
- Do I ask questions?
- Am I willing to ask a question that will expose my ignorance?
- Am I open to doing things in a way I haven't done before?
- Am I willing to ask for directions?
- Do I act defensive when criticized, or do I listen openly for the truth?
If you answered no to one or more of these questions, then you have room to grow in the area of teachability.
Barriers to Teachability
Maxwell identifies several factors that can hinder our ability to remain teachable:
- Pride: Thinking we know it all
- Past Success: Believing our previous achievements guarantee future ones
- Age: Assuming we're too old to learn new things
- Position: Letting our status make us feel we don't need to learn
- Fear: Being afraid of looking foolish or incompetent
Practical Steps to Increase Teachability
- Cultivate Curiosity: Approach each day with genuine interest in learning something new
- Ask Better Questions: Move beyond surface-level inquiries to deeper, more meaningful questions
- Seek Diverse Perspectives: Actively seek out viewpoints different from your own
- Embrace Failure as Learning: View mistakes as opportunities for growth rather than defeats
- Find Mentors: Identify people who can teach you in areas where you want to grow
- Practice Active Listening: Focus completely on understanding others rather than preparing your response
The Growth Mindset Connection
Teachability is closely connected to what psychologist Carol Dweck calls a "growth mindset" - the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. People with teachable spirits:
- See challenges as opportunities to learn
- Persist in the face of setbacks
- Learn from criticism
- Find inspiration in others' success
"Soften your attitude, learn humility, and remain teachable today." - John C. Maxwell