The Lessons That Actually Matter

As another school year begins, kids around the world are going back to the classroom to be filled with knowledge. Forgive me for asking such a ridiculous question, but why do kids go to school?

I’m sure there are a lot of reasons, but here’s are three common answers to that questions:

1. To acquire general and specific knowledge
2. To gain and improve important skills
3. To prepare for the next step of life

At the risk of sounding cynical, when I think back to all of the tests I needed to study for, it turns out the only thing I really learned was how to prepare for tests. I processed the material. I passed the tests. Then I forgot most of it in order to make more room in my head for more tests.

Of course, that’s not entirely true. I’ll be the first to say that I’ve been blessed with great teachers and a great education. But the lessons that truly stood out and the ones that had the most impact on my life were the ones that tested my character. Unfortunately, I failed many of those tests. I still do. But I’m committed to continuous learning and know I can do better.

In his latest book, Road to Character, David Brooks discusses his own life’s struggles with virtue and vice, and service and selfishness. Most notably, he coins the terms “résumé virtues” and “eulogy virtues.” Yes, both of these types of virtues are good. But he points out that as we prepare for the “real world”, we’re constantly being convinced (and convincing ourselves) that it primarily values our grades, trophies, skills, titles, and the zeros in our net worth. But then, as we reach the final chapters of our lives, we realize that society doesn’t actually value those things at all. When reminiscing a life-well-lived, our fondest memories are about who people were, not what they achieved.

As a manager, it’s easy to get fixated on an applicant’s résumé virtues. But how critical are they if someone lacks character? As a parent or mentor, what kind of virtues are you imparting on your kids? Although a spot on the Honor Roll or in the starting line-up surely make for an impressive scrapbook, eventually they all end up in the attic.

This week marks another “official start” to learning. What lessons will you be planting in the hearts and minds around you?

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