Ask Fred > Career/Work > What are skills that one needs to know that you don't learn in formal education?
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Dear Fred
Hi Fred: What are some essential skills that one needs to know that you don't learn in a formal education environment? Thanks!
Fred's Response
As you probably know, I was unable to go any further in my formal education than high school. One of the funny times in my life was a college graduation ceremony where I was the keynote speaker. The college was giving me an honorary doctorate and assumed that I would have an academic gown to wear in the processional, not knowing about my lack of a college degree. They hurriedly found a church choir robe for me to wear. However, I have never stopped learning - from books and people. My dear friend Charlie "Tremendous" Jones always points out that in five years you will be different only because of the people you meet and the books you read. As I thought about your question I put together a list that is more stream of consciousness than organized data. But these are a few of the things that I sincerely believe you can learn outside the formal classroom. Intuition, Body Language, The spirit of communication, Integrity, Knowledge of your particular uniqueness and how to use it, Courage, Networking skills, How to choose a mentor, Creating a healthy and productive environment, Sense of humor, How to be a good friend, spouse and parent. I hope that this helps. If you want to talk about this more, please send another question. Thanks.
