When it comes to achieving long-term success, maintaining an open mind and a desire for knowledge are two key habits everyone should strive to adopt. After all, there is always room to improve oneself and expand their intellectual horizons. While many believe such feats are achieved throughout obtaining their Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees, those who are truly successful — whether in business, medicine, or any other field — know that pursuing lifelong learning is the key.
To glean further insight into why lifelong learning is the key to success, be sure to continue reading Galib Mammad’s perspective below.
What is lifelong learning?
Although it may sound self-explanatory, lifelong learning is defined as the “ongoing, voluntary, and self-motivated pursuit of knowledge for either personal or professional reasons.”
For many, the pursuit of lifelong learning comes in the form of attending workshops, obtaining further training in their field, taking additional courses outside of work, or earning or updating certifications that contribute to their industry knowledge and expertise.
However, elements of lifelong learning can also be achieved through finding and working alongside a mentor, keeping up-to-date on the latest publications within one’s industry, and the like.
Regardless of one’s methodology, their sheer desire to continue developing, honing, and refining their skills is indicative of their commitment to their career and long-term success — a trait many employers, investors, and employees appreciate seeing in an individual.
What are the benefits of lifelong learning?
Outside of obtaining new knowledge and certifications, the benefits of lifelong learning are far-reaching.
For instance, those who participate in lifelong learning activities are statistically more employable than their static counterparts, especially in times of sweeping change and procedural upheaval (take how technology has altered the landscape of the workforce and will continue to do so for example).
Employees who have committed to remaining in the loop of such changes will serve as direct assets to their superiors as they implement wide-scale changes, are better positioned to keep their jobs in the face of said changes, and are even more likely to receive larger promotions and paychecks over time.
Although the above benefits are especially appealing for those in the workforce, lifelong learning also provides personal perks as well. Namely, those who seek additional training are more likely to have a greater sense of innovation instilled in them, as gaining exposure to new information and opinions opens one’s mind to countless possibilities related to their industry or area(s) of interest, and can sharpen their problem-solving skills.
While developing a newfound sense of innovation is often attributed to business success, it is truly rooted in personal growth, as doing so requires individuals to learn new skills, tackle new challenges, build confidence, acquire adaptability, and break down any mental barriers they may be facing. Many of the principles learned in this manner can be applied to personal and professional scenarios alike, and thus lead to a greater sense of fulfillment for those who participated.
Are there resources for lifelong learning?
Absolutely, and such resources are everywhere. As one of the traits of lifelong learning is self-direction, there are countless ways to build upon one’s foundational knowledge of their industry or area(s) of interest.
For instance, watching TED Talks, listening to podcasts, and participating in free, massive open online courses (MOOCs) are all methods of beginning one’s lifelong learning journey with no financial strings attached. Taking this approach to start is especially helpful for those who may not be entirely certain of their ability to commit to paying for courses or other means of development.
Evidently, there are a number of benefits associated with pursuing lifelong learning. To glean further insight into related topics, be sure to visit Galib Mammad’s website.