The Teacher and the Student Within — Lessons From Guiding Others and Learning Yourself

Teaching has a funny way of teaching you just as much as it teaches others. Over the years as a trainer, I’ve realized that guiding someone else through a lesson often highlights gaps in my own understanding—and sometimes even sparks new insights I wouldn’t have discovered on my own.

At first, I thought being a good trainer meant having all the answers. I’d prepare meticulously, rehearse every slide, and anticipate every question. But very quickly, I learned that teaching isn’t about perfection—it’s about curiosity, listening, and adaptability. Some of the most meaningful moments come from questions I didn’t expect, problems I hadn’t foreseen, or ideas shared by students that challenge me to think differently.

Being a student myself has also been humbling. Even as someone with years of experience, I constantly encounter new tools, methods, and perspectives that push me to grow. For example, learning how to use AI in my work and even teaching it to others has been both exciting and challenging. It reminded me that learning never stops, no matter how much experience we have.

This dual role—teacher and student—taught me patience, humility, and the value of continuous growth. Every class I lead and every skill I learn adds a layer to my understanding of the world, and it’s a cycle that keeps feeding itself.

Lessons I’ve Learned From Being Both Teacher and Student

• Growth is reciprocal: Teaching others often teaches you just as much, if not more.

• Stay curious: No matter your experience, there is always more to learn.

• Be adaptable: Not every student or situation is the same—flexibility is key.

• Embrace humility: Accept that you don’t have all the answers, and that’s okay.

• Celebrate progress: Every lesson taught and every skill learned is a step forward.

The biggest insight? Teaching and learning are intertwined. By embracing both roles, we become better mentors, better learners, and ultimately, better versions of ourselves. Growth is not a one-way street—it’s a continuous exchange that shapes who we are and who we can become.