Open New Horizon
Lifelong Learning for Lifelong Benefits
By: Arshad A Javed
May 18, 2023
What is lifelong learning?
Every one of us has gone through formal education, which is very important. Generally speaking, it is true that formal education and the resulting qualifications are essential. Traditional education typically has a beginning and an end. ‘Schooling’ is just one type of learning. Formal education is something everyone must go through to a certain degree. This education is undoubtedly critical for any type of career, but it usually culminates after we find a job. Once we finish our studies, we often believe that our association with learning is now over.
What happens when we stop learning?
If we are satisfied with the knowledge we have, we may gradually decline—essentially, we risk atrophy. Here comes the idea of lifelong learning. In some contexts, the term “lifelong learning” evolved from “life-long learners,” a concept created by Leslie Watkins. The term recognizes that learning is not confined to childhood or the classroom but takes place throughout life and in various situations. Lifelong learning preserves an individual’s desire to obtain new knowledge outside of the formal education system.
Why it is important? It is not just fun.
Lifelong learning is important from both personal and professional perspectives.
A personal reason for lifelong learning could be pursuing a new hobby, adding variety to your life, or simply satisfying your curiosity about how things work. Since this learning is completely voluntary, you can choose what your heart desires to learn. In most cases, people focus on languages, computer skills, or things they didn’t have time to explore when they were younger.
On the professional front, you may want to add more value to your work and increase your efficiency, which in turn enhances your chances of promotion. Gaining new skills boosts your confidence and enables you to stand out among your peers. The corporate world is continuously evolving, with industries and jobs expanding at a rapid rate. Job descriptions change, and skill sets that were once sufficient for a particular job may no longer be adequate. Employees need to keep up with the fast pace of their respective industries.
In fact, no specific reason is needed for learning. Learning for the sake of learning can be a rewarding experience in itself.
Furthermore, it is never too late to start something new. Some people tend to think that after a certain age, they are no longer allowed to start something and become successful. This is just a flimsy excuse to avoid leaving one’s comfort zone. Contrary to common misconceptions, there’s no wrong age to begin something.
Sure, in some areas, like becoming a professional athlete, starting early is necessary; you cannot do it at 50. However, to learn and improve for its own sake, you are never too old.
Remain curious; remain a lifelong student because no earning is better than learning. Be a lifelong student. The more you learn, the more self-confidence you will gain, which will help you earn more. Lifelong learning is how you improve as a person, bit by bit and day by day.