Emma’s journey as a lifelong learner began with a bold step: leaving behind a long-held position to launch her own social enterprise. It was a daunting move, but Emma embraced the challenge, recognising it as an opportunity to learn and grow in ways she hadn’t yet imagined.

 

Through attending workshops, webinars, and networking events, she began to thrive in her new role. Audiobooks like Mindset by Dr. Carol S. Dweck became constant companions, fuelling her motivation and reminding her of the power of perseverance and adaptability.

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However, Emma’s path hasn’t been without its obstacles. Earlier this year, she set out to learn French using the Duolingo app, finding it a fun and engaging start. Yet, as life grew busier, the lessons fell by the wayside. While Emma has not yet achieved fluency, she is determined to reignite her efforts, knowing that persistence and patience are essential parts of the learning process. Learning a new language has always been a challenge for her, but she remains undeterred, reminding herself that growth happens one step at a time.

One of the most pivotal moments in Emma’s learning journey came when she decided to train as a facilitator. It wasn’t an easy decision. Emma was approaching 40 and had a young family to care for. She feared it might be too late to make such a significant career change. Yet, these doubts began to dissolve when she travelled to Texas for a transformative facilitator training program. There, she met Isabelle Martin, an 80-year-old equine-assisted therapy professional whose energy, passion, and dedication to learning were contagious. Isabelle became a living reminder for Emma that age is never a barrier to growth, and it’s never too late to follow your passions.

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Despite her accomplishments, Emma has had to confront the difficult lesson of asking for help. During a facilitation training exercise, she struggled with a particular task and found herself frustrated and embarrassed. It wasn’t until afterward that she realised she had the support she needed all along—she just hadn’t asked for it. This experience taught her the importance of reaching out and seeking guidance from others, and it became a lesson she now carries with her in both her personal and professional life.

Emma reflects on her journey with a deep sense of gratitude. One of her most impactful learning experiences came from a five-day Leadership Program at Melbourne Business School, where participants were encouraged to give one another constructive feedback. The exercise was simple: listen to the feedback without interruption and respond only with “thank you.” It was humbling, yet powerful. Emma walked away from that experience with a newfound appreciation for feedback as a tool for growth, and she learned to welcome it with curiosity and gratitude.

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Looking back on her journey, Emma has some advice for her younger self—and for anyone else navigating their own learning path: “Never be afraid to ask for help,” she says. “No one has all the answers, and that’s okay. Be curious and surround yourself with people who are willing to share their knowledge.” Emma believes that building a strong network of supportive, knowledgeable people has been key to her success.

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Today, Emma’s story serves as a reminder to others that learning never ends. Whether it’s learning a new language, overcoming personal challenges, or taking a leap of faith in your career, Emma’s journey shows that with curiosity, resilience, and the courage to ask for help, anyone can unlock their full potential. Emma continues to learn and grow, and she inspires those around her to do the same, proving that it’s never too late to pursue your passions and embrace the joy of learning.

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