The Learning Curve
Studies have shown that lifelong learning benefits us in many ways. It supports cognitive health, nurtures creativity, and builds confidence. (Yes, the link I’m about to share is long—but I promise it’s a quick read and worth it.)
https://www.uc.edu/blog/4-reasons-to-become-a-lifelong-learner-for-the-new-year.html
As a former teacher, I am a strong proponent of lifelong learning. I’m the preacher in the pulpit.
LEARN UNTIL YOUR LAST BREATH!
But here’s my confession: I have an issue.
I’m trying to learn things in which I have absolutely no prior knowledge.
When I started working on my website a few months ago, I had no idea how to navigate Squarespace. I’ve also tried to kickstart my YouTube channel again, and whew—the learning curve is real. Outlining scripts (because I want them to sound conversational), editing, uploading, thumbnails, descriptions… etc., etc., etc.
It’s a lot.
But—I am learning.
(SEO optimization, however, still feels like a foreign language.)
Interestingly, this season of learning has given me deep empathy for my former students. When I was teaching new concepts, I always tried to assess prior knowledge and build from there. But let me tell you—it was so frustrating when students had nothing to build on.
That’s when I’d find myself humming, “Let’s start at the very beginning. A very good place to start…”
Laying foundations takes time. A lot of time. But it’s necessary for understanding to take root.
One thing I’ve noticed about learning in my 60s—compared to my 20s—is just how much longer it takes.
Oh. My. Goodness.
I used to be able to see one; do one; teach one.
Now it’s more like see one—about a million times; do one—about a million times; teach one—about a million times before mastery even begins to peek around the corner.
So what do I do now when confronted with something new?
I come in with a positive, can-do attitude. I accept that I won’t understand everything the first time I read the directions. I slow down. I read again. I take the time to actually understand what needs to be done.
What’s the rush?
I have time to practice before hitting the “publish” button. I can watch and rewatch videos. I can learn from professionals. I can connect with others—especially fellow retired widows—who are also in the thick of learning something new.
There are also some things I simply refuse to do.
I won’t give up after the first try.
I won’t let others’ opinions determine my learning path.
I won’t rush the process.
And I won’t stop unless I choose to.
The only person I have to answer to is myself.
And honestly—who cares if I never reach mastery in everything I’m learning?
No one. Absolutely no one.
I’m not being evaluated for job performance. No one is checking my whiteboard for objectives. No one is asking for lesson plans. No one is coming into my office with a clipboard.
“Slower doesn’t mean weaker. It means deeper.”
I’m learning for me.
I’m learning because I want to.
I’m learning because it fills my soul.
Are you a lifelong learner?
Please—don’t give up on learning. You don’t have to share what you’ve learned. You don’t have to monetize it. You don’t have to be perfect at it.
Learn for you.
Blessings
Bethanne
