What are some ways to continuously learn and develop new skills?
Continuous learning and skill development are fundamental in today’s job market and even in our personal lives. A commitment to lifelong learning is essential in order to stay competitive among our peers, remain current with technology, and stay up-to-date in our field. It’s easy to get into the habit of simply using our existing knowledge and skills but it’s important to push ourselves to broaden our understanding and skill set. Here are some great ways to keep learning and developing skills:
Read
Reading is one of the simplest and most effective ways to learn and stay informed. Immerse yourself in books and articles about topics that interest you and challenge you to think in new ways. If you’re looking for relevant content, subscribing to relevant industry-specific newsletters and blogs can help you find fresh content on an ongoing basis. Additionally, there are now many Micro-learning courses available in app stores and on websites.
Attend Events
Another great way to stay up-to-date with your industry is to attend conferences and workshops. These events provide the perfect opportunity to network, receive industry updates, get new ideas, and learn from experts in the field. Not only do they provide knowledge but they are also a good opportunity to show off your skills and make great connections.
Take Classes and Courses
Online or in-person classes are a great way to gain a new skill or develop an existing skill. You may even be able to find classes or courses specifically tailored towards your industry or job— making your time and effort even more valuable. While this may require an investment of time and money, the long-term benefits of learning more potentially outweigh the initial investment.
Find a Mentor
Having a mentor is an excellent way to stay motivated and learn new skills. Seek out someone who is already a master in their field and can provide insight and guidance. They can provide feedback about your work and even share their mistakes and successes with you. The knowledge and advice of a mentor can be incredibly valuable and may even open up doors to new opportunities.
Networking
Networking is an important skill as it can open you up to opportunities and help you build valuable relationships. Professional networking events are a great way to meet like-minded people and build relationships. Similarly, professional networking on websites like LinkedIn can help you find jobs, learn a new skill, or even connect with potential mentors.
Teach
Teaching others is a great way to learn, too. Talking about and explaining a concept can help further your understanding and provide you with a different perspective. Plus, it looks great on your resume to show that you are willing to share your knowledge with others.
Do it Yourself
Getting practical experience and jumping in and doing something yourself can help you gain the skills required. Take on a side project, create a blog, or even just work on a personal goal. Don’t be afraid to try something new and do the work rather than just reading or talking about it.
Resource Section:
- TED Talks – Hear amazing stories and advice from professionals in different fields
- Udemy – Online courses for almost any topic or skill
- freeCodeCamp – Free courses and tutorials for web development and coding
- Khan Academy – Online lessons for any topic for any level
Next Steps:
- Choose a topic or skill to learn
- Identify your purpose – why do you want to learn this topic?
- Find resources related to your topic (books, online courses, mentors, etc.)
- Prioritize your time and allocate an hour or two each day to learning and skill development
- Track your progress and measure your success