Lifelong Learning
What does it mean to you to be a lifelong learner? The answer is different for everyone but it always involves curiosity. Curiosity is the heart of lifelong learning, it allows us to step out of our comfort zones and explore new things. Enjoy these tips adapted from “14 Ways to Commit to Learning” and “10 Simple Ways to Engage in Lifelong Learning.”
Read, Read, Read:
Buy newspapers, search for things online you want to know more about, ask your friends for books they found helpful; above all else, be curious. If you want to find research on a topic, use Google Scholar to find academic research. Delve into a topic and don’t stop until you have exhausted it!
Teach others:
You don’t need to join the teaching profession to help people learn. Teaching others what you know will also help ensure that you really understand something; it’s a real test of your knowledge.
Keep in touch with mentors:
Keep in touch with the people who helped you get started.
Listen to podcasts:
Lifelong learning is the only way to stay on top of the curve. However, it’s really difficult to squeeze in at least an hour a week to gain some knowledge. Try a different podcast when you do a physical task.
Keep smart company:
Reach out to contacts that you admire. Get talking to some influencers on Twitter and organize to meet up to explore some ideas and learning topics. Make sure to keep in touch with people you have come into contact with who have inspired you to learn on your journey.
Join an industry group:
Having other people around who are working toward similar or the same goals can help you grow. These members and friends keep you accountable, and you do the same for them. Meeting regularly builds the habit and commitment. In addition to building lifelong skills, from public speaking to writing to studying, you will gain lifelong friends.
Keep asking questions:
It is important to stay curious about life so it never gets dull or boring. Encourage yourself to ask questions about anything and everything you are curious about to keep your brain engaged and healthy.
Download our infographic for a great handout.