I have always been one that learns through teaching. I struggle so much when pushed to learn by sitting in a classroom at a desk or doing online coursework. No joke, it’s a miracle I got my Masters in Social Work online. What I discovered is that I couldn’t learn the material, couldn’t really absorb it, until I was passing it on to someone else. My poor dog knows more about social work than anyone because I still teach her what I’m trying to learn.

Another fine example of learning through teaching is seeing what I learn through the simple act of teaching. This last weekend I took my 18 year old daughter out in our old work truck to learn how to drive a stick shift. I wasn’t teaching her to drive it so I could learn the process myself. In this scenario I learned more about how she learns, I learned to coach her to be patient with herself and I learned how to read when she was ready to be done. Without even knowing it, she taught me who she is, what she needs and how best to support her. Things I thought I already knew.

I love to learn. I’m constantly researching something and always seeking my own growth through knowledge. But I’m discovering so much power lies in teaching. In teaching we gain knowledge, wisdom, experience and a wealth of information about those around us.

Keep learning. And while you teach, stay teachable.

Sarah Deats

Sarah Deats is the Hope Inc. Stories Inspiration Engineer. Her goals are to make a connection with everyone that she can while building community, spreading hope, and sparking change. She believes that while life may not be easy, it is never lived alone.