Do you embrace lifelong learning? I know you’ll quickly answer YES. It’s a popular topic and after all, who doesn’t want to think of themselves as a lifelong learner?
But let’s slow down that answer and think about what is really means to be a lifelong learner.
I see lifelong learning as a pathway to strengthening your commitment to your own growth.
Maybe it’s not how you grow, so much as THAT you grow.
Let me explain, using an example from my own life.
Last year I took swimming lessons. As someone who has dedicated many many years of my life to swimming, studying techniques, and mastering the art of moving through water, you might wonder why.
Yes, lifelong leaning means studying new things (or perhaps the same things more deeply) a habit.
Here are a few reasons that I personally make studying new things a habit.
Humility: Regardless of your level of expertise, starting something new reminds us that there is always more to learn, deeper insights to gain, and fresh perspectives to embrace.
Breaking Out of Comfort Zones: Comfort zones are where growth goes to die. Doing something new is often uncomfortable, but usually this discomfort is where true growth occurs, as it pushes us to adapt and refine our skills. It reminds us that inconvenience and discomfort can be a blessing.
Remembering the Joy of Discovery: Learning something new is invigorating. William Butler Yeats is credited with saying, “EDUCATION IS NOT THE FILLING OF A PAIL, BUT THE LIGHTING OF A FIRE.” I couldn’t agree more.
Finding the Key Details: In my decades of swim practice, I’ve come to appreciate the significance of key details. These subtle nuances can make a world of difference in technique, application, and results.
Navigating Information Overload: In today’s world, we’re often inundated with information. A new class offers a structured and focused environment which forces me to cut through the noise and concentrate on the essential elements.
Embracing Lifelong Learning: Ultimately, taking swimming lessons is the fulfilling of a contract that I have with myself. I make agreements like this with myself on a regular basis. I can’t preach the essential nature of lifelong learning to our community and not embrace it for myself. I wouldn’t be walking my talk, right?
After many years of swimming (or practice in anything you currently embrace) it is not about starting over; it’s about continuing the journey with renewed intensity. It’s about embracing the principles of lifelong learning, reducing overwhelm, and searching for those elusive key details that can propel me further along the path of mastery.
Until next month, well-wishes for your enthusiastic lifelong learning,
shelli
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