Why You Should Be A Lifelong Learner + Benefits & Resources

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

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