Challenges of Lifelong Learning

"If you aren't growing, you're dying" is a quote that's repeated a lot when referencing the future of businesses. If your company isn't pushing into new avenues or making strides in developing new business, it's slowly dying, and at some point, it will hit the point of no return. The notion that stagnation leads to eventual decline is evident in the business world, but it also has a lot to do with how we learn and grow as individuals.  

Being a college student, I know how stagnation and lack of learning from time constraints all too well. Juggling work, school, social life, and personal interests can make it very difficult for any student to manage. This is exacerbated by the feeling that time is moving quicker as you grow older, coupled with that device in nearly everyone's pocket that can provide thousands of different ways to distract yourself. Therefore, being mindful that stagnation impedes your own growth can be incredibly valuable in learning new skills and concepts. We only have a finite amount of time to do things in a day, and it is very easy to lose track of time.

Here are a few strategies to try out that have personally worked well for me.

Firstly, dedicating 30 minutes to an hour each day for a hobby or skill you want to develop can make a significant difference in your life. Blocking out this time in your schedule ensures that you are prioritizing your personal growth. Remember, it doesn't have to be strictly related to your career; it can be anything from playing guitar to learning about miniature painting. The focus is to disconnect yourself from distractions and fully immerse yourself in the activity.

Another strategy is finding something that is a challenge for you to learn. Don't shy away from challenges. Rather, see them as opportunities for growth. Step out of your comfort zone and tackle tasks that push your boundaries. Whether that is a sport you've never tried or a brand-new program that you haven't utilized before. Embracing challenges fosters resilience and helps you learn, master critical thinking skills, and adapt to diverse situations.

Finally, being flexible in ways to learn.

Not everything needs to be focused on reading off a website or watching a YouTube video. Being able to experience what you are trying with your own two hands can be monumental in helping you understand and fully comprehend what you are trying to learn!

Ultimately, the key takeaway is to take action. Find something you're passionate about learning and commit to it. You'll be amazed at how much progress you can make in just six months with consistent effort and dedication!