by 
The ex-CEO of Avnet, Roy Vallee, always said be a lifelong learner and I must admit it took me a long time to understand the meaning.
At some point (in my late 40s) I got off my butt and joined the Business Marketing Association (BMA) and it was best move I made.
I attended local and national events and in all cases -- even still today -- I learn something about marketing and advertising at every meeting. But the biggest benefit was meeting and becoming friends with some of the best marketers, agency leaders and CMOs in the country. It's kinda cool to be able to reach out and solicit their help or advice. Beats calling Ghostbusters.
I took the BMA theories and instituted training for my staff and global leaders for a few reasons - if I did it they might do it too -- and more importantly be a step ahead of the competition.
I can't stress enough if you are reading this to step back and ask yourself how or if you are being trained or gaining knowledge for your position or where you want to end up. Bottom line if you are great -- my bet is you are -- you will enhance your career and possibly make more money because you are doing your job well. So be selfish. And smart.
