This week, to celebrate one year of the Jackson Lees Training Academy, it's LearnFest! We asked some of our people questions about learning. Here's what Emily Burns, one of our Trainee Solicitors, had to say:
Why is it important to continue learning?
Learning is a fundamental part of life. We begin learning when we are born and we never stop. Whether it is taking our first step, writing our first essay or cooking our first meal. Learning not only develops specific skills but it develops us as individuals. The world is constantly changing which means no matter how hard we try, we can never know everything. However by stepping outside our comfort zone into areas that we might not be as familiar with, each day we can learn something new. This will allow us to continue developing as individuals and prevent us from being left behind when everything and everyone around us is moving forwards.
What is the most valuable lesson you have learned in work?
The most valuable lesson I have learned since working at Jackson Lees is that reliability is key, both in relation to our clients and our colleagues. A work environment can be stressful, particularly when unexpected obstacles emerge simultaneously. It is important to do everything possible to relieve the pressure from those around us and help to improve their day, whether this is by being proactive and helping with a colleague’s workload or simply by bringing some positivity to the room. Success is achieved by working together, both in terms of completing the work itself as well as recognising when your colleagues are struggling and being there to offer support.
What I the most valuable lesson you have EVER learned?
The most valuable lesson I have learnt in life relates to what I have mentioned above – change. Previously if I experienced change I would feel uncomfortable and anxious at the idea of the unknown. One thing that life has taught me so far is that change is inevitable and to fight it is a waste of time because sometimes it has to happen whether you like it or not. I used to look at change as something to fear but now I am realising that it is something to embrace. It is an opportunity to learn or experience something new which in the end is going to be beneficial whether the experience is good or bad; you will either thrive off it or learn from it.