Challenge

An overlooked aspect of developing competence is the importance of being exposed to challenge by peers and mentors during career development.  Being surrounded by entirely supportive and nurturing co-workers will not provide exposure to contrasting views.  Deep thinking, judgement and the ability to develop a clarifying argument must be part of a thorough learning experience.  By not being challenged or questioned, a false sense of confidence in the depth and accuracy of knowledge will inevitably develop. Exposure to an alternative view and being faced with an opposing approach to solving a problem is essential to developing well-rounded and thorough thinkers.