Many think that their brains can no longer acquire new skills once they reach a certain age. However, the truth is that learning is a lifelong journey that you can start, no matter your age. Discover six ways that can help you embrace the joy of learning as an adult.
- Make Learning Part of Your Routine
Adults live busy lives, leaving no time for learning a new skill. Here are some tips to ensure learning remains a part of your daily routine:
- Designate a specific area for learning. This could be a spare room or a desk in your bedroom.
- Set aside time each day. Even 15 to 20 minutes of learning can make a difference.
- Find resources that cater to your interests. Listen to podcasts while driving, watch educational videos while doing the dishes, or read articles before bed.
- Use a planner. This can help you keep track of your schedule and life commitments, such as errands.
- Enroll in a Class
Some people enjoy self-study, while others prefer learning with a teacher. However, teaching yourself means you have to be self-motivated. If you struggle in this area, consider enrolling in a class or online course, especially if you want to upskill in career-related areas like project management or leadership.
This is also helpful for learning more about a new culture or language. Immersive classes allow you to fully engage with a foreign language, enabling you to achieve a higher level of proficiency.
- Ask Questions
Don’t hesitate to contact your teacher, mentor, or classmate if you need help understanding content. Use the opportunities to interact with like-minded people to enhance your learning. If you’re self-studying and have no contact person, you can visit online communities on Reddit, Quora, or Facebook to discuss your topic of interest.
- Identify Your Learning Style
People learn best in different ways. Discover the four main types of learning styles and how to learn best:
- Auditory learning: Auditory learners prefer taking information when it’s heard or spoken. They usually think before they speak. Lectures and group discussions help them learn better.
- Visual learning: Visual learners prefer using visual aids like maps, diagrams or charts. They also benefit from comfortable and organized learning environments.
- Kinesthetic learner: If you prefer to learn by doing, you’re a kinesthetic learner. Personal experiences and simulations help you better understand a topic.
- Reading or writing: Some learners prefer consuming content through reading and writing. They’d understand diagrams or charts better if written in statements.
- Just Start
Avoid relying on motivation for anything — it’s fleeting and often unreliable. On the other hand, discipline is persistent and enduring. Check out one new podcast weekly, read a new book or enroll in that online course. The longer you wait to start, the higher the risk you never reach your goal, so take the first step today.
- Believe in Yourself
Find your inner strength to embrace your learning journey with all its ups and downs. When you believe in yourself, what people will think of you won’t matter anymore because you know what you can achieve. Because of this belief, you’re more willing to try new things even if you feel uncertain.
Is It Harder to Learn as an Adult?
It may sound like it is, but according to Dr. Rachel Wu of the University of California, Riverside, middle-aged and older adults may be just as great at learning as younger individuals. It may seem complicated because you have many other things to do — work, family, bills, and chores. However, with determination and hard work, you can learn anything.
Start Your Learning Journey
Learning is not just for children. It’s something that you can start anytime for your growth. Whether you want to learn a new language or instrument, it’s never too late.
Feature Image via Unsplash
