The Power of Unlearning: A Hidden Growth Strategy for Business Owners

As business owners, we often emphasise learning - new strategies, tools, or insights to drive success. I know I do!

But what if the real game-changer lies in unlearning?

Sometimes, clinging to outdated practices can be more damaging than ignorance.

Unlearning isn’t about erasing knowledge. It’s about shedding habits, systems, or mindsets that no longer serve our goals.

A game changer for me, for example, came after about five years in business when I unlearned the mindset drilled into me that I had to work flat-out day after day to achieve my goals to the detriment of everything else. Now I know I can make space for creative fun in my business. 

If this sounds of interest to you, here are 4 ways to unlearn in order to stay ahead:

1.     Question the “why” behind your habits

Have a look at your business practices. Are you sticking to them because they work, or simply because they’re familiar? Ask, “Does this still add value?” For example, holding onto lengthy in-person meetings because you’ve always done it that way, could be costing your team valuable time compared to quick virtual updates.

2.     Foster a culture of experimentation

Unlearning flourishes in environments where innovation thrives. You don’t have to have all the answers yourself. Get your team to help!

Encourage a culture where team members feel safe to challenge the way you’ve always done things. Celebrate ideas that push boundaries - even if they fail. This creates space for discovering new and fresh approaches.

3.     Stay focused on your customers - always!

Sometimes, our attachment to “tried and tested” methods blinds us to shifting customer needs. Ask for feedback from your customers to understand their evolving expectations. Check in with them to be sure your strategies align with their realities, not your assumptions.

4.     Embrace change as growth

Unlearning takes humility. It’s recognising that what brought us success in the past may hinder us now. It might feel brutal but maybe this is the time to revisit and reflect on our own practices and change direction if necessary.

Unlearning is less about losing and more about making room for better ideas, stronger processes, and sustainable growth.

Ros Jones, Business Coach & Trainer 

I’ve designed a brand new Balanced Business Success Training Series for 2025 specifically for business owners and their leaders. Please drop me a note if you’d like to see the details: info@rosjones.co.uk.