Renowned educational author Anthony J. D’Angelo was once quoted as saying: “Develop a passion for learning. If you do, you will never cease to grow”. While it is commonplace to associate learning with your prescribed scholastic or tertiary education, lifelong learning can present itself in many forms and be motivated by numerous things. From a career perspective, one cannot ignore the fact that the industries of the world are changing at breakneck speed with artificial intelligence threatening to displace both blue- and white-collar workers. On both a personal and professional front, we are forced to constantly better ourselves, ensuring we are smarter, stronger and more valuable than our colleagues, our friends, and even our own family members.
Why Do People Engage In Continual Learning?
There are two chief reasons why a self-loving individual would undertake to engage in lifelong education: for personal development and professional development. Engaging in ongoing education is believed to keep your brain active throughout your entire life, delaying the onset of dementia and preventing you from getting bored as you age. It can also boost your career prospects and make you an overall happier and a more well-rounded individual.
Continual Learning For Professional Development
As much as we hate to admit it, our survival largely depends upon our earning potential. Not a single day goes by that we are not reliant on a source of income that enables us to eat, clothe ourselves and pay for our education. One of the most fundamental benefits of continuous education is increased labor market earnings according to the World Bank. Employees who are college-educated for example, typically earn as much 84% more than those who only possess a high school diploma. A person who is in possession of a good education is seen as a bigger asset to a company which, in turn, can lead to better career prospects in terms of promotions with increased salaries. If you are unhappy in your current positions, continual education will make it increasingly easier for you to find a new job.
Personal Reasons To Undertake Lifelong Learning
There are countless reasons why you may consider learning for your own personal benefit.Whether you want to expand your knowledge pertaining to your favorite pastime or are particularly interested in your family’s ancestry, subjecting yourself to constant learning can augment your quality of life significantly. The benefits of lifelong learning are multi-faceted. In terms of personal development, continuous learning can have a very positive effect on both self-esteem and confidence while also challenging our various ideas and opinions. Apart from it being enjoyable, being a lifelong scholar can make you significantly less hostile towards risk and more flexible in terms of any life changes that might be forced upon you.
Regardless of where your life journey may take you, chances are continually bettering yourself both personally and professionally will benefit you in numerous ways. The greatest gift you can give yourself is to not only believe in your capabilities but to also invest the time, money and effort into making you the best version of yourself you can possibly be.
