The things they Do Not Teach in school, yet are crucial for survival.

By Jackie Tahakanizibwa

Looking back at my school days, I struggle to remember if I ever learnt some of the key skills that have helped me at work and in life generally. All I remember are formulas and theories. Do you relate?

Its clear that school gives us formulas, theories, and structured learning. But the real world operates on a whole different curriculum where soft skills, emotional intelligence, and adaptability determine how far you go. Here are some of the most critical things i have learned that no textbook prepared me for:

How to Read the Room
No one teaches you how to walk into a meeting and instantly gauge the mood. But in the workplace, this skill is gold. I once attended a high level meeting where data was on our side, but the energy in the room told a different story. Reading the body language of key decision-makers, I quickly realized logic alone wouldn’t win. A shift in tone, acknowledging their concerns, and a bit of humor softened the atmosphere leading to a successful outcome.

Building relationships beyond titles
In the corporate world, titles matter, but relationships matter more. The security guard, the receptionist, the cleaner are the unsung heroes of any organization. I cannot count the number of times a kind word and genuine respect from me have led to valuable insights, quicker processes, or doors quietly opening.

How to Sell Yourself (Without feeling like a fraud)
Personal branding is not arrogance, it is clarity. Many of us do great work but remain invisible because we assume “our work speaks for itself.” It does not. I have a brilliant colleague whose contributions went unnoticed until she started speaking up in meetings and strategically sharing her wins. Suddenly, opportunities found her. Lesson? If you do not market yourself, someone less qualified but more vocal will take the spotlight.

When to Walk Away
Not all fights are worth fighting.

Managing special people. Some call them “difficult people”.
You will not find a course on “how to handle difficult people”, or a course on “When to push back” yet knowing when to assert yourself and when to let things slide can save your peace of mind.

Good people, there is no manual for real life, but experience is the best teacher. What are some lessons you’ve learned outside the classroom that have shaped you? Let’s share and learn together.

Mrs. Jackie Tahakanizibwa is the Regulatory Affairs Manager at Uganda Breweries Ltd.