If you want time off from work to develop a new skill — by attending a class, going on a retreat, or participating in a fellowship — you need to make a strong case to your boss. Start by considering the connection between what you want to learn and the needs of the business. How will your company benefit from your new skill? Can you share the learning with your team? Are there issues at work that you could solve as a result of the training? Once you’ve answered these questions, prepare for the conversation with your boss. Plot out the best- and worst-case scenarios, and anticipate the questions your boss will ask you. Your manager may not be the person who approves the request, so do your homework to understand who else is involved in the decision-making process, and what they care about. You should be ready to make the case to anyone you need to.

Source: Adapted from “How to Ask Your Boss for Time to Learn New Things,” by Rachael O’Meara