Get Smarter in Minutes—Tips for Leaders and Aspiring Leaders 🤓 {The Virtual PM Newsletter}


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Hey Reader,

In our last few newsletters, we’ve talked about the importance of continuous growth for leaders.

But here’s the real question: how do you actually keep learning and evolving while leading a team?

I get it—finding the time and energy to learn something new can feel overwhelming. That’s why I’m sharing five learning tactics I use to keep my mind sharp and drive innovation within my team.

One thing I’ve found especially helpful?

Building a learning routine that fits my lifestyle. You can do it too.

For instance, whether you’re commuting, running errands, or on a walk, podcasts and audiobooks are your secret weapon.

Plug in, hit play, and absorb leadership insights on the fly. It’s like having a personal coach in your ear!

You can also set aside just 10-15 minutes a day to learn something new.

From reading a quick article to watching a short TED Talk, these bite-sized sessions add up and keep you sharp without overwhelming your schedule.

I digested the 5 learning tactics of the world's most effective leaders in the infographic below.

Have You Taken Your DISC Assessment Yet?

A DISC assessment is a personality profiling tool designed to improve communication, teamwork, and productivity by identifying behavioral traits.

It’s based on the DISC theory, developed by psychologist William Moulton Marston, which categorizes people into four primary behavioral styles:

  1. Dominance (D) – Focuses on results, challenges, and taking action. People with high Dominance are typically assertive, confident, and task-oriented. They enjoy problem-solving and prefer to take control in situations.
  2. Influence (I) – Centers on social interactions, communication, and persuasion. High Influence individuals are outgoing, enthusiastic, and enjoy engaging with others. They thrive on collaboration and enjoy motivating others.
  3. Steadiness (S) – Prioritizes stability, support, and consistency. People with high Steadiness are patient, reliable, and calm under pressure. They value teamwork and prefer a steady pace rather than sudden change.
  4. Conscientiousness (C) – Values accuracy, structure, and quality. Those with high Conscientiousness are detail-oriented, analytical, and methodical. They focus on ensuring tasks are completed correctly and to high standards.

Book your call now and we’ll create a personalized plan to boost your communication and leadership skills—both for you and your team.

Plus, I’ll reveal how a DISC assessment can unlock your untapped potential.

Speaking of Leadership...

Here are some of my favorite leadership books that you too might enjoy. 📚

Leadership and the One Minute Manager - Master the art of effective leadership with simple, actionable strategies that transform teams and productivity.

The 4-Hour Work Week - This book teaches you how to escape the 9-to-5 grind and live life on your terms with time-tested productivity hacks.

Everyone Communicates, Few Connect - Unlock the secret to impactful communication and build meaningful connections that inspire and influence.


Digital Products You May Find Helpful

Team Skills Matrix Template - Easily identify skill gaps and optimize team performance by mapping out your team’s strengths in one clear, actionable template.

Training Plan Template - Create structured, impactful training programs that boost employee development and productivity with minimal effort.

Leadership and Development Checklist - nsure your leadership growth stays on track with a step-by-step checklist designed to enhance your skills and drive team success.

Virtually Yours,

Donna Franklin West, MHA, PMP, CSM

CEO, The Virtual PM

☎️901-489-9850

📧connect@thevirtualpm.org

Click here to see our Business Portfolio



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