Innovation Leadership and the ability to “sell” innovation are extremely important to innovators. A University study by the Department of Education revealed that the best way for innovators to learn is through self-study. This is called the “IDEA Model,” which means that the best way to study an area is to model the activity. In other words, ask yourself: “What would I need to learn about this topic?”

This same concept can be applied to innovation leadership. The first step in creating a model for innovating is to determine what you will study. Then, you need to develop an action plan. Include realistically your time, financial resources, skills, and expertise. It’s best to prepare for the entire self-directed life while planning for the exams.

The first step of any self directed study program is self-discipline. Stay focused on the end goal. Do not become distracted by non-prioritized information. Keep in mind, the key to innovation leadership is learning as much as you can; therefore, don’t stop studying.

Your next step should be to develop study strategies that fit your lifestyle and schedule. If you have a job; consider taking a course at work. If you have children; consider taking parenting classes at home. If you’re retired; consider taking a course with a local community college.

A key component to self-directed study is planning. This includes a realistic timeline and work plan. A timeline helps you keep track of progress and shows what you’ve been doing recently. A work plan will help you stay on target. Both of these are essential; if you don’t have a timeline or plan, you may be tempted to just “go ahead and study” without a plan.

In addition to working on your plans, you need to make sure you are getting the right amount of sleep. I’ve read some studies that suggest as little as four hours’ sleep may be enough to make you fall asleep. Don’t do it! Seven or eight hours of sleep is needed.

Finally, my suggestion for taking on the challenge of taking on the Innovation Leadership Exam for me is to learn everything you can about the process. There are many books on this subject. Join LinkedIn. Searching for business groups that discuss topics like this will provide valuable content in your quest to take on the challenge of Innovation Leadership. The more you know before you begin; the better prepared you will be.

I know it is a challenge for you to get the extra study time to make sure you fully understand the content on the test. But it is worth it. Once you pass the examination, you will enjoy a renewed sense of confidence and have a deeper understanding of innovation leadership. This knowledge will serve you well as you take on other challenges in your career.

A word of caution: Don’t spend more time than you need to study. If you are taking notes in between classes, break them up into smaller chunks of time. And when you have a few sections to read, don’t leave them sitting there because you have no idea what they say.

Remember to plan your study schedule before you begin. Know when you will have available study time during the day. Make sure you have a quiet place at home to complete your homework. You won’t want to be interrupted while you are studying. It’s always a good idea to read aloud, so don’t worry about turning the pages too quickly!

Study well, study hard and then have fun doing it. Don’t be afraid to take a break from studying. When you do finish studying, don’t push yourself to finish your homework or to write a report. Just sit down and have a leisurely meal so that you can clear your mind.

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