"El aprendizaje es la inversión más rentable que podemos hacer, tanto para nosotros como para nuestro negocio".
In family businesses, decisions about when and how much to invest in the learning of its members can be crucial to ensure long -term success and continuity. Sometimes, the wisest lessons come from simple and everyday situations, such as a traditional story. Nasrudín, the famous sage of popular culture, invites us to reflect on the cost of not investing in knowledge. This story is a perfect metaphor of how family businesses often underestimize the importance of education and continuous learning in their growth.
Once upon a time there was a wise man named Nasrudín, known for his cunning questions and provocative answers. One day he decided that he wanted to learn to play the flute, so he went to a recognized music teacher and asked him:
“Do you have to teach me to touch the flute?”
The teacher responded with a smile:
—They pieces of silver the first month; Then, a piece of silver per month.
Nasrudín thought for a moment and, with his characteristic ingenuity, said:
-Perfect! I will start in the second month.
Lessons for family businesses:
1.- The cost of education is not always immediate
In Nasrudín’s history, the initial cost of teaching may seem a high expense. However, that first month is essential to lay the bases of learning. Similarly, family businesses must understand that investments in training and training do not always generate immediate results, but are fundamental for long -term success. If investment in education is postponed, the company could face difficulties when new market challenges arise.
In a family business, members often resist investing in training courses OA to hire external consultants, thinking that immediate return does not justify spending. However, delaying these investments can cause the company to be outdated in front of the competition, either in terms of leadership, technology or innovation.
2. Do not postpone learning
Procrastination is one of the greatest enemies of progress. Nasrudín decided to wait to begin his learning, which in the world of family businesses can translate into an attitude of postponing important training decisions. This procrastination only delays growth and leaves the company vulnerable to market changes. Continuous learning is essential to maintain competitiveness and take advantage of new opportunities.
In a family business, the marketing director could postpone training in new digital strategies, believing that it is not the right time. However, this delay can mean losing opportunities in a market that is moving quickly towards digital. The ability to adapt in time is key to maintaining leadership.
“Knowledge is the engine that drives success; ignoring it is the brake that stops progress.”
3. The time value in training
Every month that Nasrudín loses when he does not start learning is time that he cannot recover. In family businesses, the time invested in training is as valuable as money. Learning not only implies acquiring knowledge, but also investing in personal and professional development, which strengthens the entire organization. Continuous improvement is a long -term strategy that ensures competitiveness and sustainability.
In a family business, a family member could take a leadership course. However, while later in acquiring these skills, the more it risks to make wrong decisions or to lose opportunities to improve the company’s performance. The time invested in training translates into more informed decisions and better business management.
4. Invest in collective development
The training should not be limited only to the founders or managers of the family business. All family members must have access to learning opportunities. The family cohesion and the success of the company depend on everyone being aligned with the values, mission and skills necessary to make accurate decisions. If Nasrudín had started from the first month, he would have learned faster and better. The same happens in family businesses: the sooner it is invested in collective development, the faster the objectives will be achieved.
In a family business, it is common for only senior management members to receive training. However, if also invested in the development of employees of other levels, greater integration and understanding of strategic objectives are achieved, which improves decision -making and strengthens business culture.
Nasrudín’s story reminds us that, although the temptation to save in immediate costs can be strong, the real cost of not investing in learning is much higher in the long term. Procrastination and fear of immediate expenses may have a negative impact on the growth and competitiveness of the company.
The opportunities to learn and adapt should not postpone, because the market does not expect. The key to the success of a family business is to understand that education and continuous development are essential investments to ensure a solid and prosperous future.
About the author:
Twitter: @mariorizofiscal
The opinions expressed are only the responsibility of their authors and are completely independent of the position and the editorial line of Forbes Mexico.
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