Why You Should Be A Lifelong Learner + Benefits & Resources


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Apr 14 2024 20 mins   4

Note: I hooked up the Shure mic wrong LOL this NOT an accurate sound quality, it is however the quality of a MacBook Air hahahaha




Being a lifelong learner is so critical in today's society.


We are surrounded by constant change and we have to be able to learn and adapt to those changes


If we think about jobs that used to be relevant but are no longer:



  • Lamplighter (1900)

  • Switchboard operators (1975-1980)

  • Camera film developers (1990s)

  • Life operators (1970ish)

  • Milkman (1990s)

  • Video store operator (1995-2000)



Dictonary.com


The provision or use of both formal and informal learning opportunities throughout people's lives in order to foster the continuous development and improvement of the knowledge and skills needed for employment and personal fulfillment


So it's not just going to school or attending college


It's a commitment to not stop learning



Benefits of being a lifelong learner:



  1. Leadership development

  2. Career advancement

  3. Side gig opportunities

  4. Keep your mind sharp

  5. Stronger communication

  6. Adaptability

  7. Personal growth

  8. Confidence

  9. Health and wellness

  10. Stay up to date

  11. Networking opportunities

  12. Fulfillment

  13. Motivating

  14. Help create new goals

  15. Enjoyment

  16. Exploring new passions or interests

  17. Innovation

  18. Job security

  19. Develop critical thinking skills

  20. Avoiding getting bored



How it can keep you relevant in your field:



  1. Current knowledge

  2. Career advancements

  3. Develop/deepen problem solving skills

  4. Networking

  5. Professional growth

  6. Future readiness / preparing for future changes

  7. Adaptability

  8. Increased confidence

  9. Increased job security

  10. Proactive

  11. Sharpen your skills

  12. Innovation

  13. Global perspective



Resources:



  1. Online courses (Coursera (EdX, Udemy, Massive open online courses MOOCs, MIT opencourseware)

  2. Podcasts

  3. YouTube

  4. Blogs / websites

  5. Libraries - physical and digital

  6. Museums

  7. TEDtalks

  8. Open educational resources (Openstax)

  9. Digital archives

  10. Language education (Duolingo)

  11. Coding (CodeAcademy)

  12. DIY (YouTube, pinterest, wikihow )

  13. Online forums (Reddit)

  14. Social Media

  15. Kids - learning platforms (abcmouse)

  16. Books



Create A Plan Of Action


Set goals


Decide on your preferences


Online, in person, etc.


Create a list of subjects/topics


Schedule time


Track status


Ask for accountability help if you need it


Use all your resources


Learn


Practice and play


Debrief - what went well / not well / change


Make it continuous