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:

Leadership development
Career advancement
Side gig opportunities
Keep your mind sharp
Stronger communication
Adaptability
Personal growth
Confidence
Health and wellness
Stay up to date
Networking opportunities
Fulfillment
Motivating
Help create new goals
Enjoyment
Exploring new passions or interests
Innovation
Job security
Develop critical thinking skills
Avoiding getting bored

How it can keep you relevant in your field:

Current knowledge
Career advancements
Develop/deepen problem solving skills
Networking
Professional growth
Future readiness / preparing for future changes
Adaptability
Increased confidence
Increased job security
Proactive
Sharpen your skills
Innovation
Global perspective

Resources:

Online courses (Coursera (EdX, Udemy, Massive open online courses MOOCs, MIT opencourseware)
Podcasts
YouTube
Blogs / websites
Libraries - physical and digital
Museums
TEDtalks
Open educational resources (Openstax)
Digital archives
Language education (Duolingo)
Coding (CodeAcademy)
DIY (YouTube, pinterest, wikihow )
Online forums (Reddit)
Social Media
Kids - learning platforms (abcmouse)
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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