The Power of unlearning and relearning: Fueling personal and organisational growth

In a rapidly evolving world, where technologies, market conditions, and consumer preferences shift continually, the key to sustained success lies in the ability to adapt. For individuals' and organisations' effectiveness, learning new skills is essential, but learning to unlearn and relearn what one already knows often holds the secret to real success. Yet it is the capacity to unlearn outdated knowledge and embrace new perspectives that often makes the real difference. This process of unlearning and relearning has become a cornerstone of growth in today’s business landscape, highlighting the need for reskilling and upskilling at every stage.
Unlearning: The freedom of limited beliefs
“Sometimes the first step to learning is unlearning.” Unlearning is not simply about forgetting; it’s an active process of recognizing that certain approaches, skills, or assumptions may no longer be effective. The evolution of technology has rapidly altered established knowledge bases. For instance, traditional banking models have been transformed by digital technologies, requiring a mindset shift from manual processes to data-driven decision-making. In many cases, unlearning these legacy practices opens doors to innovation, allowing professionals to adopt more agile, tech-savvy approaches to work.
The need to unlearn is relevant across all functions, from finance to operations and customer service. It encourages individuals to critically analyze their knowledge base, consciously shedding techniques that no longer serve their purpose. This can be particularly challenging, as it requires stepping out of comfort zones and questioning ingrained habits. Yet, those who succeed in unlearning are better prepared to address the new realities of their industries and drive innovation forward.
Relearning: Embracing the new skills
Once we unlearn, relearning allows us to fill that space with fresh, relevant skills that align with modern demands. Relearning goes beyond merely acquiring new skills; it involves internalising new insights and recalibrating one’s thinking to reflect the latest advancements and realities. This integration of knowledge not only enhances individual effectiveness but also fosters adaptability, enabling professionals to tackle challenges with a fresh, informed perspective rather than relying on outdated methods.
Reskilling and Upskilling: Building a future-ready workforce
Incorporating structured programs for reskilling and upskilling within organizations enables a workforce to stay relevant amidst evolving industry standards. Reskilling refers to teaching employees new skills to perform a different job function, while upskilling enhances employees' existing capabilities. As automation and artificial intelligence (AI) take on a larger share of repetitive tasks, the need for specialized human skills—such as critical thinking, creativity, and complex problem-solving—becomes paramount. According to a recent report* by the World Economic Forum, over 50% of employees will need significant reskilling or upskilling by 2025 to remain competitive in their fields.
In practice, reskilling and upskilling efforts include comprehensive training programs, online courses, and experiential learning initiatives that allow employees to apply new concepts in real-time. Many organizations have started to establish “learning cultures,” which emphasize continuous professional development, peer learning, and collaboration. Such a culture not only improves employees’ technical competencies but also instils a growth mindset that encourages adaptability and resilience.
Embracing a lifelong learning mindset
For sustainable growth, both individuals and organizations must cultivate a commitment to lifelong learning. This is more than a one-time shift; it’s a continuous journey. Organisations can support this by encouraging a learning-friendly culture and providing ample opportunities for their teams to enhance their skills. This fosters an environment where employees feel empowered to take charge of their professional development and better prepare themselves for the future.
A lifelong learning mindset has also proven to boost employee satisfaction and retention. Employees who feel supported in their professional growth are more engaged and more likely to remain with the company. This reduces turnover rates and creates a stronger, more cohesive workforce, positioning the organisation as an industry leader.
Practical strategies to implement unlearning and relearning
- Promote learning agility: Encourage employees to step outside their areas of expertise, promoting cross-functional knowledge sharing. This enhances overall learning agility and reduces resistance to change.
- Create safe learning environments: Individuals are more likely to engage in unlearning and relearning when they feel supported and understood. Create spaces where employees can explore new skills without fear of failure, including mentorship programs or shadowing opportunities.
- Encourage experimentation and feedback: Innovation thrives when employees are encouraged to experiment and learn from both successes and setbacks. Open feedback loops, where insights from experimentation are integrated into new approaches, can speed up the relearning process and drive creativity.
- Use technology for personalised learning: AI-powered learning platforms enable personalized training paths, ensuring that employees focus on areas where they have the most to gain. This can make the unlearning-relearning journey more efficient and rewarding.
- Celebrate small wins: Recognising milestones in the learning journey reinforces the value of continuous development, encouraging others to engage in their unlearning and relearning.
Conclusion
The dual concepts of unlearning and relearning are essential for adapting to today’s complex, dynamic world. Both individuals and organizations that embrace these concepts position themselves to thrive, regardless of the uncertainties that lie ahead. By fostering a learning-friendly culture and investing in reskilling and upskilling initiatives, companies create a competitive edge that not only boosts organizational resilience but also cultivates empowered, future-ready professionals. In the end, the willingness to let go of outdated practices and embrace new knowledge stands as a powerful catalyst for enduring success.