One of the coolest things about growing and learning is that you are literally never too old to stop. Whether you are young and working 60 hours a week or have cut back on your hours and are semi or permanently retired, you can carve out pockets of time here and there to pursue your hobbies and interests.
Why Lifelong Learning is So Important
There are a number of reasons to strive in your quest for knowledge your entire life. For instance, if you are hoping to move up in your job or intend on returning to the working world, being open to learning and improving your skills will allow you to advance in your chosen profession. In addition, constantly being on the lookout for new things to learn will prevent you from becoming the dreaded know-it-all type of personality; on the flip side, thirsting for knowledge and new skills will help keep you humble. Finally, learning new things and growing as a person can be a highly enjoyable and rewarding experience that can boost your confidence and self-esteem.
As for how to go about growing and learning, consider the following:
Look for a Side Hustle that Teaches New Skills
If you are looking to earn some extra money while keeping your skills sharp, you might want to look into a side gig that not only pays well but also allows you to learn new things. For instance, instead of working evenings as a pizza delivery driver—not that there is anything wrong with that—you might look into a side hustle that allows you to test your entrepreneurial skills. As an Independent Business Owner with Amway, for example, you can practice your sales skills all while managing your own schedule. A leader in the health and beauty products industry, Amway offers free online education courses in multiple languages to those interested in pursuing their own business.
Meet a Mentor and/or High Achievers
Another great way to learn and grow as a person is to surround yourself with people who feel the same way. You figuratively become who you spend a lot of time with, so seek out others who share your passion for growth. Start by downloading a business networking app; Inc.com reviewed a number of them that can help you find local networking events geared to your interests. Then attend a few of them. While you are there, you might meet someone who would make a fine learning mentor for you—someone who can share tips and knowledge with you while also inspiring and motivating you to reach higher than before.
Identify a Learning Goal and Go for It
Maybe you never really learned how to type and you are sick of hunting and pecking on the keyboard. Perhaps you enjoy reading, but were turned off by the long lists of required reading back when you were in school. Or maybe you dream of standing up at an event and delivering a funny speech, but are petrified of public speaking. Take an honest look at what skills you may be lacking and decide to take tangible steps to improve them. Typing Club offers free online typing classes. The library is chock full of books that you can check out and read for pure enjoyment—if you are not sure what to read, ask your good friends for advice. Or join a local Toastmasters Club and work on your public speaking skills.
Take the Reins and Keep on Growing
No matter how old you are or how much free time you have, there is always something new and exciting to learn. From adding to your professional skills by taking on a business scaling strategy course to surrounding yourself with like-minded people and setting tangible goals, you will be a lifelong learner who is always eager to grow personally and professionally.
