Nomix - Blog #educationNomix - Blog #educationhttps://nomix.co.za/blogs/tag/educationSun, 22 Mar 2026 01:14:21 -0700http://zoho.com/sites/<![CDATA[Ethical Practices of Wellness Counsellors]]>https://nomix.co.za/blogs/post/ethical-practices-of-wellness-counsellorsDiscover the essence of ethical wellness counselling: confidentiality, boundaries, client welfare, professionalism, cultural competence, self-reflection, supervision, transparency, and continuous education. Start your journey with us today for a fulfilling career in counselling.]]>

Introduction

As a wellness counsellor, your clients entrust you with their deepest concerns and vulnerabilities. This trust underscores the importance of ethical practices in counselling, forming the foundation of effective healing. In this blog, we delve into the guiding principles that anchor ethical standards in wellness counselling, offering insights to enrich your practice and ensure your clients receive the support they deserve.

Maintain Client Confidentiality

Client confidentiality is a crucial facet of ethical practices in counselling. Clients share sensitive personal information with their counsellors, and it is the counsellor's role to ensure this information remains private and confidential. Counsellors must take steps to secure the privacy of their clients' information, including physical, verbal, and electronic means. Counsellors must also obtain informed consent before sharing any client information.

Respect Boundaries

Boundary violations can occur when health professionals cross the line with their clients, breaching ethical and professional standards. Counsellors must maintain a safe and professional relationship with their clients. They must respect client autonomy and the client's right to make decisions about their treatment. Counsellors must have explicit and clear boundaries. Crossing these boundaries with clients can lead to loss of trust, emotional harm, and loss of professional credibility.

Focus on Client Welfare

Central to ethical counselling practices is the well-being of the client. Counsellors must work with clients to create a mutually agreed-upon and realistic plan of action. The welfare of the client must always come first and guide them towards self-fulfilment and resolution of their issues. Counsellors must recognise their limitations, not overextend themselves and, where necessary, recommend other professional services best suited to help the client.

Ensure Informed Consent

Counsellors must ensure that their clients have given informed consent before moving forward with any treatment and that the clients receive full disclosure regarding the nature of the therapeutic relationship. Counsellors must have the foundational knowledge and skills to be transparent with clients, avoiding misunderstandings and potential harm. They spend time building relationships with clients; discussions always anticipate client expectations, the process involved, and potential outcomes.

Uphold Professionalism

Professionalism is a core value in counselling practices, and counsellors are obligated to abide by professional codes of conduct and ethical principles. Counsellors must stay current on professional development to remain competent in their areas of speciality. They must also refrain from engaging in behaviours that could compromise their professional integrity and be mindful of cultural sensitivity and timely recognition and management of issues as they arise.

Cultivate Cultural Competence

In today's diverse world, cultural competence is paramount for wellness counsellors. Clients come from various cultural backgrounds, and it is essential to understand and respect their cultural beliefs, values, and practices. Counsellors must undergo cultural sensitivity training to effectively communicate and connect with clients from different cultural backgrounds. By embracing cultural competence, counsellors can create a more inclusive and supportive environment where clients feel understood and respected.

Practice Self-Reflection

Self-reflection is a critical aspect of maintaining ethical standards in counselling. Counsellors must continuously reflect on their own beliefs, biases, and motivations to ensure they are acting in the best interests of their clients. Through self-reflection, counsellors can identify any personal biases or prejudices that may impact their ability to provide unbiased and effective support to their clients. By cultivating self-awareness, counsellors can enhance their professional growth and effectiveness in helping clients navigate their healing journey.

Establish Supervision and Consultation

Seeking supervision and consultation is essential for wellness counsellors to ensure they are providing high-quality and ethical care to their clients. Supervision allows counsellors to receive feedback, guidance, and support from experienced colleagues or supervisors. It provides an opportunity for counsellors to discuss challenging cases, ethical dilemmas, and personal issues that may arise in their practice. By engaging in regular supervision and consultation, counsellors can enhance their skills, address any ethical concerns, and ultimately improve the quality of care they provide to their clients.

Promote Transparency

Transparency is key to maintaining trust and rapport with clients. Counsellors must be open and honest in their interactions with clients, providing clear and accurate information about the healing process, treatment options, and potential outcomes. Clients should feel empowered to ask questions, express concerns, and participate actively in their healing journey. By promoting transparency, counsellors can foster a collaborative and trusting relationship with their clients, leading to more positive therapeutic outcomes.

Commit to Continuing Education

The field of counselling is constantly evolving, and counsellors must commit to lifelong learning and professional development to stay abreast of the latest research, theories, and techniques. Continuing education allows counsellors to expand their knowledge base, refine their skills, and enhance their effectiveness in supporting clients. Whether through workshops, conferences, or online courses, ongoing education empowers counsellors to provide the highest quality of care and uphold ethical standards in their practice. Learn more about our Continuous Professional Development (CPD) courses for ASCHP registered Counsellors.

Start your journey with us today

The EduNomix™ Virtual eLearning Ecology offers a diverse range of courses designed to equip individuals with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to thrive in the field of counselling. Whether you are embarking on a new career path or seeking to enhance your existing skills, our courses provide a comprehensive foundation in counselling theory, techniques, and ethical practices. Aspiring counsellors are invited to explore our offerings and join a community dedicated to promoting holistic wellness and personal growth. With expert guidance from experienced tutors and a supportive learning environment, EduNomix™ Virtual eLearning Ecology is your gateway to a fulfilling career in counselling. Start your journey with us today and discover the transformative power of compassionate listening and support. For more information about counselling courses and preference profiling, please engage with our enquiries team.

Conclusion

In navigating the complex terrain of wellness counselling, adherence to ethical principles is paramount. By upholding confidentiality, respecting boundaries, and prioritising client welfare, counsellors foster an environment of trust and empowerment. Embracing cultural competence, practising self-reflection, and engaging in ongoing professional development further fortify ethical practice, ensuring that wellness counsellors remain steadfast in their commitment to supporting clients on their healing journey.
Professor Marius Herholdt
President Association for Supportive Counsellors & Holistic Practitioners at ASCHP (SAQA: 984).
]]>Fri, 17 May 2024 18:18:18 +0200<![CDATA[Unveiling ASCHP's Research Issue CPD 24.5: Navigating the Frontiers of Professional Excellence]]>https://nomix.co.za/blogs/post/unveiling-aschp-s-research-issue-cpd-24.5-navigating-the-frontiers-of-professional-excellenceExplore ASCHP's Research Issue CPD 24.5, delving into diverse research methodologies and contemporary issues. Enhance professional practice through rigorous insights and ethical considerations. Enroll today for transformative growth!]]>

Introduction to CPD Courses

Continuous Professional Development (CPD) is a vital aspect of maintaining professional excellence, required by various regulatory bodies for professionals across diverse fields. Professionals such as counsellors, psychologists, medical practitioners, nurses, social workers, religious workers, and teachers are mandated to engage in ongoing CPD training. The ASCHP, aligning with statutory regulations, offers CPD courses to keep its members abreast of the latest research, legislative amendments, and professional requirements. CPD points, determined by registration category, ensure that professionals fulfil their annual CPD obligations, enhancing their knowledge and expertise in their respective domains. Stay current, informed, and compliant with ASCHP's comprehensive CPD courses. Find out more about the CPD requirements for CCSA/NHA & ASCHP members here.

Read on to explore the transformative world of one such CPD course; Research Issue CPD 24.5.

Introduction

Are you prepared to delve into the dynamic realm of research methodologies and emerging trends? Join us at EduNomix™ as we introduce ASCHP's Research Issue CPD 24.5 course, a transformative course crafted to explore the frontiers of professional practice through a research lens. Discover the tools, insights, and methodologies essential for navigating the complexities of contemporary research issues in your field.

Exploring Research Methodologies

ASCHP's Research Issue course transcends conventional boundaries, immersing participants in an exploration of diverse research methodologies. From qualitative inquiries to quantitative analyses, this course provides a comprehensive overview of research paradigms, equipping participants with the knowledge and skills to conduct rigorous and insightful research in their respective domains.

Navigating Contemporary Research Issues

Embark on a journey to unravel the complexities of contemporary research issues shaping your profession. ASCHP's Research Issue course delves into topics ranging from evidence-based practice to ethical considerations, offering participants a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities inherent in conducting research within their field. Gain insights into best practices, emerging trends, and ethical frameworks that underpin responsible and impactful research endeavours.

Enhancing Professional Practice Through Research

Unlock the transformative potential of research in enhancing your professional practice. ASCHP's Research Issue course empowers participants to leverage research findings to inform decision-making, improve service delivery, and advance the collective knowledge base of their profession. Discover how research catalyses innovation, growth, and continuous improvement in professional practice.

Why Enrol in ASCHP's Research Issue

Elevate your professional practice and expand your horizons with ASCHP's Research Issue course. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner seeking to deepen your research acumen or an aspiring professional eager to embrace evidence-based practice, this course offers invaluable insights, resources, and networking opportunities. Enrol today to embark on a journey of discovery, growth, and professional advancement.

How to Enrol

Ready to embark on a transformative journey into the world of research? Enrolling in ASCHP's  Research Issue course is simple and accessible. Visit the EduNomix™ website or the course landing page Research Issue CPD 24.5 course and take the first step toward unlocking the power of research in shaping your professional journey.

Conclusion

Invest in your professional growth and embark on a journey of discovery with ASCHP's Research Issue CPD 24.5. Gain the knowledge, skills, and insights needed to navigate the frontiers of contemporary research issues and enhance your professional practice. Enrol today and unlock the transformative potential of research in shaping the future of your profession. Your journey to professional excellence begins here!

Professor Marius Herholdt
President Association for Supportive Counsellors & Holistic Practitioners at ASCHP (SAQA: 984).
]]>Mon, 12 Feb 2024 10:07:43 +0200<![CDATA[Embark on a Journey to Wellness with ASCHP's Wellness Modalities CPD 24.4 at EduNomix]]>https://nomix.co.za/blogs/post/embark-on-a-journey-to-wellness-with-aschp-s-wellness-modalities-cpd-24.4-at-edunomixEmbark on holistic wellness with ASCHP's Wellness Modalities CPD 24.4 at EduNomix. Explore diverse practices nurturing mind, body, and spirit. Elevate your wellbeing journey—enrol today!]]>

Introduction to CPD Courses

Continuous Professional Development (CPD) is a vital aspect of maintaining professional excellence, required by various regulatory bodies for professionals across diverse fields. Professionals such as counsellors, psychologists, medical practitioners, nurses, social workers, religious workers, and teachers are mandated to engage in ongoing CPD training. The ASCHP, aligning with statutory regulations, offers CPD courses to keep its members abreast of the latest research, legislative amendments, and professional requirements. CPD points, determined by registration category, ensure that professionals fulfil their annual CPD obligations, enhancing their knowledge and expertise in their respective domains. Stay current, informed, and compliant with ASCHP's comprehensive CPD courses. Find out more about the CPD requirements for CCSA/NHA & ASCHP members here.

Read on to explore the transformative world of one such CPD course; Wellness Modalities CPD 24.4.

Introduction

Are you ready to embark on a holistic journey towards wellness and self-discovery? Join us at EduNomix™ as we unveil ASCHP's Wellness Modalities CPD 24.4, a transformative course designed to explore various modalities that foster mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing. Discover the keys to unlocking a harmonious and balanced life through wellness practices that go beyond conventional norms.

Discovering Wellness Modalities

ASCHP's Wellness Modalities course takes you on a journey of exploration into diverse wellness practices. Move beyond traditional approaches as we delve into the world of modalities that encompass mental health, emotional resilience, and physical vitality. This course is not just about acquiring knowledge; it is an invitation to embody wellness in your daily life.

Holistic Approach to Wellbeing

Experience a holistic approach to wellbeing that integrates the mind, body, and spirit. ASCHP's Wellness Modalities course emphasises the interconnectedness of various modalities, fostering a comprehensive understanding of how they contribute to overall health. Explore the transformative power of holistic practices that nurture every aspect of your being.

Mind-Body Connection

Unlock the secrets of the mind-body connection and its profound impact on wellness. This course delves into modalities that bridge the gap between mental and physical health, offering insights into practices that promote harmony and balance. Learn how cultivating a positive mindset can positively influence your overall wellbeing.

Emotional Resilience and Wellness

ASCHP's Wellness Modalities course recognises the significance of emotional resilience in the pursuit of wellness. Explore modalities that empower you to build emotional strength, navigate challenges, and cultivate a positive emotional state. Gain practical tools to enhance your emotional wellbeing and foster resilience in the face of life's ups and downs.

Physical Vitality Through Wellness Practices

Nourish your body and cultivate physical vitality with the wellness practices covered in this course. From movement therapies to nutritional guidance, ASCHP's Wellness Modalities course provides a diverse array of modalities aimed at supporting your physical health. Discover the joy of holistic living that nourishes both body and soul.

Why Enroll in ASCHP's CPD 24.4

Elevate your understanding of wellness with ASCHP's Wellness Modalities CPD 24.4. Whether you are a wellness enthusiast, a healthcare professional, or someone passionate about leading a balanced life, this course offers valuable insights and practical tools. Enrol today to expand your knowledge, deepen your practice, and transform your approach to wellbeing.

How to Enroll

Ready to embark on a journey towards holistic wellness? Enrolling in ASCHP's Wellness Modalities is simple and transformative. Visit the EduNomix™ website or course landing page Wellness Modalities CPD 24.4 and take the first step toward a life of enhanced wellbeing.

Conclusion

Invest in your holistic wellness journey by joining us at EduNomix™ for ASCHP's ​Wellness Modalities CPD 24.4​. Embrace diverse modalities, cultivate a harmonious mind-body connection, and unlock the secrets to emotional resilience and physical vitality. Enroll today and step into a world where wellness becomes a way of life. Your transformative journey awaits!

Professor Marius Herholdt
President Association for Supportive Counsellors & Holistic Practitioners at ASCHP (SAQA: 984).
]]>Fri, 02 Feb 2024 11:03:59 +0200<![CDATA[Navigating Your Path to Excellence and Well-being]]>https://nomix.co.za/blogs/post/navigating-your-path-to-excellence-and-well-beingEmbark on a transformative journey with Your Unique Contribution, focusing on self-enrichment, wisdom, and purpose. Explore 'xlusive' profiles and coaching services. Your path to excellence begins at EduNomix™]]>

Introduction

Welcome back to the third issue in our blog series, Your Unique Contribution Programme. You may already be familiar with the debut blog in this series, ​Unlocking Your Potential​ and the blog on the chapter, ​Empower Yourself with Special Skills​. These blogs provide an illustration of our commitment to self-awareness and personal growth that goes beyond the boundaries of traditional education. In this Chapter, Self-Enrichment and Self-Growth, we delve deeper into how your unique contribution to your environment can enrich your and others' lives and careers.

Self-Enrichment and Self-Growth

Self-enrichment and self-growth are to nurture personal development and the continuous advancement of one's abilities and well-being. We invite students who are eager to enhance their personal and academic efforts, to embark on this transformative journey with us.  The design and layout of Your Unique Contribution are for individuals, like you, who seek personal and academic enrichment, by investing in yourself.  Our ​EduNomix™​ Learner Management System (LMS) provides a diverse array of ​Tertiary Education​ personal and academic enrichment options, and we encourage you to explore these exciting opportunities with us.

The Wisdom of Understanding

In the pursuit of a fulfilling life, it is essential to know yourself and your surroundings. Understanding your unique qualities, coupled with a grasp of the world you inhabit, leads to wisdom. This procedure is about achieving harmony between your individual development and a holistic perspective of your surroundings, marking a crucial starting point in your personal growth journey.

Living with Purpose 

Living life with a purpose, in making your Unique Contribution means you are embracing your existence with profound self-awareness and personal growth. It is about understanding your individuality and the distinctive impact you can have on the world. This journey helps you identify your weaknesses and helps you develop and nurture your innate strengths, interests, and values. 

Living with purpose means aligning your actions, decisions, and aspirations with your authentic self. Your life becomes a canvas for expressing your unique contributions to the fullest. It is an active engagement in self-discovery, self-development, and self-expression, all with the aim of leaving a lasting and meaningful mark on your life's journey. Taking action today means that you turn your dreams into the reality of tomorrow.

Unearth Your 'Xlusive' Potential

Unearth your 'xlusive' potential with our preference profile. But that is not all; our ​Personal Preference Profiles​ are integral to your journey of self-discovery. Understanding your unique qualities and leveraging them effectively is pivotal. In the same way that a kaleidoscope reveals a spectrum of colours, these profiles unveil the diverse facets of your personality, guiding you in enhancing your ability to connect with others and the world around you. Explore your 'xlusive' ​Learning Preference​ as you finalise your ​Personal Thinking Preference​ Profile.

Guidance on Your Journey

And if you seek personalised guidance to further hone your unique contributions, our ​Coaching and Mentor​ services are here to support you. Chapter 2 is your step towards self-empowerment, self-enrichment, and self-growth, and these services play a vital role in aiding you on this journey. ​EduNomix™​ provides a variety of 'xlusive' services tailored to your unique journeys, such as Coaching and Mentor and Personal Thinking Preference Profiles. These services serve as a cornerstone in assisting you in moulding your destiny and well-being, offering valuable tools and expert guidance to help you become the best version of yourself.

Conclusion

As you embrace this transformative journey through Chapter 2, remember that Your Unique Contribution is a program designed to enrich your life and career. ​Nomix™​ offers a wide array of ​Tertiary Education​ options, 'xlusive' ​Personal Preference Profiles​, ​Coaching and Mentor​ services, and various bespoke integrated ​Cloud Solutions​ designed to help you reach your destiny and accelerate your well-being catering to both individuals and businesses. 

Your path to excellence and well-being is unique, enriching not only your life but the lives of those around you. Join us on this enlightening journey as you navigate your life and career within a broader context.

Delve into the subsequent chapters of 'Your Unique Contribution' by following our upcoming blogs. For references and a recap of previous blogs, visit our ​Insights​ domain on the Nomix™ website, your gateway to a world of resources about our offerings.

Your extraordinary journey continues, and more revelations await. Stay tuned!

Dr Pieter du Toit
Specialisation: Change Management, Aviation Management, Business Management, Human Resources, Coaching and Business Leadership
]]>Fri, 10 Nov 2023 13:53:34 +0200<![CDATA[Unlocking Your Potential with EduNomix's 'Your Unique Contribution' Programme]]>https://nomix.co.za/blogs/post/unlocking-your-potential-with-edunomix-s-your-unique-contribution-programmeEduNomix's Your Unique Contribution program unlocks potential through seven insightful chapters, exploring self-awareness, growth, and impactful contribution, carefully designing your destiny. Join the transformative journey.]]>

Introduction

Welcome to the world of ​EduNomix™, where learning goes beyond the conventional and delves into the extraordinary, 'An xlusive way of life!'. As we navigate through this transformative journey with you, we invite you to explore a remarkable programme, Your Unique Contribution, tailor-made just for you.  We believe that learning extends far beyond textbooks and classrooms. It encompasses personal growth, self-awareness, and self-empowerment, which are critical not just for academic excellence but for success in life. Let us explore seven insightful chapters, each designed to unlock Your Unique Contribution, and your 'xlusiveness', to the world empowering you to shape your destiny.

Chapter 1: Your Unique Contribution

Empower Yourself with Special Skills

The power of your uniqueness lies at the core of innovation, creativity, and the ability to inspire change. In this chapter, we will delve into the essence of self-awareness and self-development. We firmly believe that understanding your unique qualities has the potential to shape your destiny and impact the lives of those around you. Read about our ​Coaching and Mentor services and how they can influence your destiny and well-being.

Chapter 2: Living

Self-Enrichment and Self-Growth

In the second chapter, we explore the significance of planning your life and career within the broader context of your environment. This approach leads to self-empowerment, self-enrichment, and self-growth. We understand that real-life challenges often extend beyond textbooks, and we equip you with the skills you need to navigate them.

Chapter 3: Identity

Get to Know Yourself and Elevate Your Interpersonal Skills

Successful relationships, both personal and professional, are rooted in strong interpersonal skills. In this chapter, we uncover the power of understanding yourself better and enhancing your ability to connect with others.

Chapter 4: Destiny

Who Do You Want To Be? Decode Your Cognitive Style

Have you ever contemplated your thinking style? Chapter 4 provides insights into your cognitive style, revealing the intricacies of your thought processes. This knowledge empowers you to adapt and thrive in various aspects of life, building gravitas in Your Unique Contribution. Can't, wait? Complete your Thinking Preference Profile and discover your 'xlusive' thinking style. 

Chapter 5: Implementation

What You Have To Offer and Shape Your Learning Journey

In this chapter, we explore your thinking preferences and learning styles to optimise your strengths. Learning is a lifelong adventure, and your learning style is your 'xlusive' learning fingerprint. Discover your 'xlusive' learning style when you complete your Learning Preference Profile.

Chapter 6: Your Unique Contribution Is Your Gravitas

My Ongoing Contribution and The Gravity of Personal Influence

Your Unique Contribution extends beyond the ideas you bring to life. In this chapter, we delve into building gravitas within Your Unique Contribution, encompassing expertise, confidence, consistency, empathy, and continuous learning. Just as gravity shapes the physical world, your Gravity of Personal Influence molds your world. You can discover your 'xlusive' thinking style when you complete your Thinking Preference Profile.

Chapter 7: Your Thinking and Planning Preferences

Cognitive Blindness and Your Thinking Preferences

In this final chapter, we unlock the power of ​Your Thinking Preferences​ through four distinct quadrants. Your thinking style plays a significant role in how you relate to the world around you. To find out what your Thinking Preference is, visit the ​Nomix™ Shop.

Conclusion

As you embrace this expedition into the depths of your unique contribution, remember that the Nomix™ website offers a multitude of resources. You can find information about all the ​Tertiary Education​ options we offer, 'xlusive' Personal Preference Profiles and various bespoke integrated Cloud Solutions​ designed to help you to reach your destiny and accelerate your well-being. Your journey to unlocking your potential starts here. Keep an eye out for the upcoming blog in this series, which will focus on Empower Yourself with Special Skills, where we will delve deeper into exploring Your Unique Contribution and the exceptional skills that empower you.

Dr Pieter du Toit
Specialisation: Change Management, Aviation Management, Business Management, Human Resources, Coaching and Business Leadership
]]>Fri, 27 Oct 2023 18:30:42 +0200<![CDATA[Freedom of Thinking or Conformity - Part 2]]>https://nomix.co.za/blogs/post/freedom-of-thinking-or-conformity-part-2“ But just think how it would be if everyone else looked at things as you do – what would the world be like? ” ―  F. Scott Fitzgerald Let’s look at co ]]>
“But just think how it would be if everyone else looked at things as you do – what would the world be like?”
― F. Scott Fitzgerald

Introduction

Let’s look at conformity thinking again: Thinking conformity can happen when people change their opinions to align with the majority opinion of a group. It occurs when people are influenced by the beliefs or behaviors of others and feel pressure to conform to the group’s standards. This can be seen in many aspects of life, such as fashion trends, political opinions, and social norms. People may conform to the group’s opinion because they want to fit in and be accepted, or because they fear being rejected if they don’t. Thinking conformity can lead to a lack of creativity and critical thinking, as well as a lack of individualism.
We have amazing brains. We can change any pattern, behaviour, or habit, as long as we take decisive action. Why? The brain is malleable – malleability of the brain refers to its ability to change, grow and adapt in response to new experiences and learning, as well as making a decision to change. This process is also known as neuroplasticity. It means that the brain can rewire itself in response to stimuli, leading to changes in behavior and cognition.
This malleability is due to the presence of dendrites and axons, which are structures that allow neurons to form new connections and re-arrange existing ones. The formation of new neural connections and changes in the strength of existing ones underlie the process of learning and memory.
Overall, the malleability of the brain is a critical component of our ability to learn and adapt to new environments, which is essential for our survival and success in life.

The Courage to Change Your Thinking

Even though our brains are wired for change, it takes courage to break the cycle of unwanted thinking habits and to start thinking differently! It is an important part of your personal development and allows you to explore your own thoughts and beliefs; challenging limited believes and negative thoughts; embracing new experiences and perspectives and cultivating positive habits and attitudes.
The quality of your thoughts can have a significant impact on the quality of your life. Practicing mindfulness and creative thinking can help to reshape the neural pathways in your brain and improve your overall well-being. Additionally, engaging in activities that promote neuroplasticity, such as learning new skills or practicing meditation, can also help to change the structure and function of your brain.

Taking Control of Your Thinking

Your thinking is the essence of who you are. It is therefore important to identify your way of thinking, to identify any forms of negative or closed thinking in order to change your thinking – and in so doing to change your strategies, business, your futures, and your life.
Once you allow constant negative thinking to take hold in your life, your thinking becomes conditioned and boxed in. You begin to respond in this conditioned way towards specific experiences, people, ideas and change – until the process intensifies and you think and act negatively towards everything. Dr Kobus Neethling, President of the SA Creativity Foundation, calls it ‘Below the line thinking’ and says it makes us defensive, full of resentment and irrational. By thinking (and therefore living!) below the line, you lock in your power and energy instead of setting it free in order to reach your full potential and to fly.
To develop into a creative PERSON you need to take responsibility for your thinking.

Coming Forth Into the Light

I was born the day
I thought:
What is?
What was?
And
What if?
I was transformed the day
My ego shattered,
And all the superficial, material
Things that mattered
To me before,
Suddenly ceased
To matter.
I really came into being
The day I no longer cared about
What the world thought of me,
Only on my thoughts for
Changing the world.
― Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem
Marita Durr
CEO — Applied Creativity. Neethling Brain Institute NBI® Whole Brain Trainer
]]>Fri, 05 May 2023 10:27:07 +0200<![CDATA[Enabling Life-long Learning​]]>https://nomix.co.za/blogs/post/Enabling-Life-long-Learning“Lifelong learning for everyone on board could well be the most sustainable advantage an organization of any flavor can have!” ―  Tom Peters ]]>
“Lifelong learning for everyone on board could well be the most sustainable advantage an organization of any flavor can have!”
― Tom Peters

Introduction

As we envision our working lives and careers, a clear divide between a period of education followed by work no longer applies. Our technology is updating, our understanding of the world is shifting, and our workplaces are changing. In order to just keep working, we need to keep learning. When you listen to the stories of successful achievers in almost any field, learning is a part of their success stories.
So how can we conceive of learning for our life-long needs or challenges?

Sharpening your saw

In his seminal book, the Seven Habits, Stephen Covey included the habit of “sharpening the saw” where he described a woodcutter preparing to cut down and tree, and regularly stopping to check if the axe is sharp. While many have referred to this as both taking care of your tools and your ability to “cut down trees”, this has also included the deliberate practice of getting better at what you do, what you know and keeping up with a VUCA context. As people, we now live and work in an environment where we need to constantly improve. Stay “sharp” is an active and deliberate strategy.
The even better news is that learning can keep your brain younger and functioning better for longer. There are studies which show undertaking qualifcations and learning in mid-life can improve brain functioning and reducing or delay aging impacts. For example Kris powers quotes research from Science Daily, that describes how our mental facilities are best protected when they are used often. Continued learning activities can even slow the physical process of illnesses like Alzheimer’s. Other benefits of deliberately learning include reducing boredom, improving self-confidence, developing skills, improving strategy and relationships, and even improving sleep.

Reconceptualising learning

Learning is a verb, it therefore requires action, deliberate intention and often planning. A traditional definition of lifelong learning is “all learning activity undertaken throughout life, with the aim of improving knowledge, skills and competences within a personal, civic, social and/or employment-related perspective” (European Commission, 2001). And yet, life long learning is more than this. It also includes making time to deliberately reflect on your life, your relationships, your goals and where your gaps are. Documenting lessons learnt and learning from mistakes, failures and successes helps us improve. So including a reflective practice and planning how to implement what you are learning needs to be included in your learning-process.
An important shift to make, is that learning, and especially life long learning is self initiated. What this means, is that instead of someone telling you what to learn, how to learn and when to assess, like at school or post-school institution, you are now in the educator’s seat. While there are learning coaches and mentors who can help and advise, in the end it will be more up to you than anyone else. So pause for a moment and chose an area of your life that will improve other areas, perhaps your health or nutrition, shifting habits perhaps learning to type faster, perhaps MS Excel. You may want to separate your work and a personal or leisure learning goals. Once you have set a goal, explore how you can achieve this goal. You may be surprised at what is available (often at no additional cost) within your own organisation. Several large corporations provide access to LinkedIn’s learning platform or something like future learn.

Planning for learning

When you commit to a qualification, it becomes easier to put aside time to show up to lectures or classes and do required readings. Deadlines also help a person focus and prioritise. When you complete a qualification it can be difficult to sustain the pace of learning without having a structure or external motivation. So the most important part is to either set a goal or find ways to sustaing your identity as a “learner”or “student”. This may be as simple as planning to read a book each month or signing up for a course online, participating in work training or more deliberately working with your employer on a personal development plan. You may also want to meet regularly with a mentor, join a professional association (which has the added benefit of networking) or join a hobby club (which has the added benefits of developing creativity, often problem solving and improving relaxation).
While learning is important, unless you plan for it or schedule it, learning can wait in the face of urgent to do lists and people who engage… learning doesn’t pay immediately. Planning to sharpen your saw by learning regularly is about frequently investing in yourself so that you, your colleagues, your family and community can reap the rewards. If its not in your calendar, on a weekly or daily basis, its unlike to happen. So an important aspect to consider is how to make progress on a daily or weekly basis. If you choose to read a book each month, book time to purchase the book and then read 15 minutes a day. If you want to watch tutorials on how to use Word or Excel or another software better, subscribe to a learning channel and then show up once a week. Enroll in a course through a platform like Udemy or Coursera and then follow the recommended time allocations (which vary depending on each course). If you are going to listen to podcasts while commuting, pre-download a selection onto a device you can safely listen to.

Conclusion

Life-long learning can help you achieve the goals of your life and improve the quality of your life. Making this a deliberate part of your life is essential to make this work for you. Thinking about your learning, planning to learn, setting goals and showing up to learn will be the only way to move forward.
Dr Heather Goode
Specialisation: Education, Curriculum Studies, Economics and Academic Literacy
]]>Mon, 06 Feb 2023 02:58:09 +0200<![CDATA[Degrees of Consideration]]>https://nomix.co.za/blogs/post/degrees-of-considerationHave you been thinking about getting a degree? In these tough economic times, perhaps you heard that people with degrees tend to stay employed more fo ]]>

Why would you as a working adult consider getting a degree?

Have you been thinking about getting a degree? In these tough economic times, perhaps you heard that people with degrees tend to stay employed more for longer or earn more. Perhaps you want to qualify for a promotion or new job but see that a specific degree is a requirement. Perhaps you just want to explore this further. However, if you have ever seriously explored this, you may know its challenging to get a degree or study further as an adult. One look at the fees and most are ready to run. And if that doesn’t scare you, the drop out rates or degree completion rates for working adults might. Or the time needed to study… Not to mention the idea that all the people studying are straight out of high school and…. Or maybe you didn’t do maths, or pass maths, or study in English or other stuff…
So what should you do? There are some great reasons to get a degree and some strategies for studying as a working adult. More than that, the fastest-growing group enrolled for higher education are working adults. Still, there are a few things you should know before you commit and pay to study further to ensure that this goal is right for you and your time, money and effort is not wasted. This post will tell you why you might find it worthwhile before you decide to study further, especially if you are over 30 or 50.

So what are some of the reasons working adults think about studying further to get a full qualification?

Some of you may be facing work and career requirements, where if you want to stay in a certain role or be promoted or become a manager, your company may require you to get a degree. This is great when you also want to get a degree and see that the career path ahead of you is what you want. This is even better if your boss and company are prepared to support you in getting your degree, and you can negotiate for support, accountability by adding this to your personal development KPI or apply for funding and study leave. Some companies go further, and put together groups of employees and work with higher education providers to provide a programme that fits your context. This can be a double-edged sword if your company expects you to study for a degree but won’t give you time to write exams or support your studies at all. So start a conversation with your manager or HR about what can and won’t happen. Ask to talk to people in the company who are currently studying to see if the support is real or conditional.
Another reason may be that instead of staying at a company or current job, you want to shift into a new career. Studying a degree as a stepping stone to where you want to go is a great way to set up a shift and give you a reason to apply into a new space. Again some companies may support this and others may be upset if you reveal you are planning to move on so use your discretion about sharing your next moves.
The evidence is clear that having a degree can contribute to job security, can increase average earnings or improve job satisfaction as you feel trained for the position. However, this does vary depending on the field and type of qualification, as well as the fit for your current job or company. So I will discuss this in more detail in a future blog.
And lastly, perhaps you have always wanted to but didn’t have the opportunity when leaving school or have changed your mind since you left school. You feel like there is something that you are missing that you really want to meet this goal. Maybe it’s about self-respect, or being able to be proud of what you are doing, or staying up to date with a changing world. I remember chatting with a father who started studying when his daughter was at university and his dream was to stand with her in an academic gown at graduation. It was tough to match the pace while studying part-time, but he made it. So make it clear to yourself and explore what you think getting a degree will bring you. And then check if this will happen as a result of a specific degree. So often, self-respect is not about qualifying or having a credential. Ask yourself if these reasons will be enough to work at night or study while others are out having a braai.
Choosing to study further needs some planning and research. The blogs that follow will assist you in exploring the related issues and decisions. Making sure you are doing it for the right reasons, and that this will keep you going when it gets tough is important. Keep in mind that a degree is often a 3- 5-year commitment. Although, as Dr Henry Cloud pointed out, the next 5 years will come, and in 5 years you can either have a degree or not… So what will you choose today?
If you feel you would benefit from talking to a coach about this please contact EduNomix.
Dr Heather Goode
Specialisation: Education, Curriculum Studies, Economics and Academic Literacy
]]>Mon, 06 Feb 2023 02:00:00 +0200<![CDATA[Freedom of Thinking or Conformity]]>https://nomix.co.za/blogs/post/freedom-of-thinking-or-conformityIt is not that easy to look at our thinking objectively. Negative thinking patterns can develop without us realising it and can add unnecessary stress and anxiety to our lives. What is important, is to realise that we don't have to be a slave to old and negative thinking patterns.]]>
“We are addicted to our thoughts. We cannot change anything if we cannot change our thinking.”
― Santosh Kalwar

Introduction

It is not that easy to look at our thinking objectively. The brain is an amazing organ that has the capacity to constantly make new connections and take us to new heights - if we have the desire, but on the other hand, the brain is constantly looking for patterns and if you keep on repeating thinking patterns, it will keep you there without you even realising it. This is not all bad – habits free us from thousands of small decisions we don’t have to make on a daily basis – how to brush our teeth, make a cup of tea, run a bath, etc. These decisions are habitual, effortless. At the same time, the brain’s dependence on automatic routines or habitual thinking patterns, can be dangerous. It can be as much a curse as a benefit.
Negative thinking patterns add unnecessary stress and anxiety to our lives. In his book Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy, Dr. David Burns outlines common cognitive disorders such as:
  • All-or-Nothing Thinking:
    • Thinking in terms of black or white, or in extremes. 
  • Overgeneralization:
    • Inaccurately concluding that one unpleasant experience will lead to a negative future filled with many more of them.
  • Magnification (or Catastrophizing):
    • Exaggerating negative details of an event and overemphasizing your own imperfections and fears, making things into a much bigger deal than they actually are.
  • Emotional Reasoning:
    • Believing that how you feel accurately represents the truth of your reality.
  • Using 'Should statements': 
    • Using the word 'should' to motivate behavior when it ultimately leave you feeling pressured and frustrated.
  • We can add overthinking as a negative thinking pattern as well.
Some of you may be facing work and career requirements, where if you want to stay in a certain role or be promoted or become a manager, your company may require you to get a degree. This is great when you also want to get a degree and see that the career path ahead of you is what you want. This is even better if your boss and company are prepared to support you in getting your degree, and you can negotiate for support, accountability by adding this to your personal development KPI or apply for funding and study leave. Some companies go further, and put together groups of employees and work with higher education providers to provide a programme that fits your context. This can be a double-edged sword if your company expects you to study for a degree but won’t give you time to write exams or support your studies at all. So start a conversation with your manager or HR about what can and won’t happen. Ask to talk to people in the company who are currently studying to see if the support is real or conditional.

The Power of Changed Thinking

According to the Oxford Dictionaries, 'Thinking' can be defined as "the process of considering or reasoning about something". Or according to the APA (American Psychological Association) Dictionary of Psychology: "Cognitive behaviour in which ideas, images, mental representations, or other hypothetical elements of thought are experienced or manipulated. In this sense, thinking includes imagining, remembering, problem solving, daydreaming, free association, concept formation, and many other processes."
The human brain thinks in a number of distinct ways which can be deliberately tested and challenged, and therefore trained for use in a structured way, allowing us to develop new ways for thinking about particular issues. Research shows that differences in the physical connections of the brain are at the root of what make people think and behave differently from one another. Researchers have mapped the exact brain regions where individual differences occur. Their findings reveal that individuals' brain connectivity varies more in areas that relate to integrating information than in areas for initial perception of the world.
According to Kobus Neethling, founder and president of the South African Creativity Foundation, it has always been accepted that thinking can develop spontaneously because of environmental factors, mentor relationships and countless other stimuli. It is also true that the use of creative and whole brain techniques can ignite exceptional performance. It all starts with understanding your own thinking preferences.
What is important, is to realise that you don’t have to be a slave to old and negative thinking patterns. You can change your thinking! Conformity to what is generally accepted as the truth as spread by social media without challenging it, is not the way to go – it leads to stereotyped, distorted thinking. AND - thinking directly affects your emotions.

How to Change Your Thinking

You are in control and can change these patterns by following these simple steps:

Four Easy Steps to Change Your Thinking 

  • Identify your negative / distorted thinking patterns: Keep a journal and write the negative thoughts down – it will help you becoming more aware of your thinking.
  • Challenge your thinking: It is important to challenge your thoughts - not all thoughts are true! Is this really the truth? Take a step back and assess the negative thought.
  • Change your inner talk: Rephrase your thinking to make it positive, real, compassionate, hopeful. Write it down next to the negative thought.
  • Keep on doing this for at least 27 days to create new thinking patterns.

Conclusion

We can train our minds to change our brains. The quality of your thoughts has a direct impact on the quality of your life. So, if you want to live a fulfilling and meaningful life, start by paying attention to the things you think about every day.

References

Sophia Mueller, Danhong Wang, Michael D. Fox, B.T. Thomas Yeo, Jorge Sepulcre, Mert R. Sabuncu, Rebecca Shafee, Jie Lu, Hesheng Liu. Individual Variability in Functional Connectivity Architecture of the Human Brain. Neuron, 2013; 77 (3): 586 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2012.12.028

Marita Durr
CEO — Applied Creativity. Neethling Brain Institute NBI® Whole Brain Trainer
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