Lifelong learning recognizes that not all of our learning comes from a classroom. It is often informal, sometimes free of charge, and always self-initiated.
Whether exploring personal interests and passions or pursuing professional ambitions, lifelong learning can help us to achieve personal fulfillment and satisfaction.
It recognizes that humans have a natural drive to explore, learn, and grow, and encourages us to improve our own quality of life and sense of self-worth by paying attention to the ideas and goals that inspire us.
Recently, my 29-year-old daughter said something that really took me by surprise (and that’s not easy to do). It was so unexpected because I had put the topic out of my mind decades ago.
When she was little, I had her take piano lessons, mainly because I took classical piano lessons for ten years as a child and understand its outer and inner rewards. Even with my beautiful grand piano at her fingertips, she was not interested. Okay, on to other pursuits—she has many talents. So when she told me her goal now is to learn piano and that she is getting a keyboard, it was quite a pleasant surprise.
I was fascinated to learn why, now, this had become a compelling goal for her. There are many personal motivations in play, and one of them she shared is that she envisions herself being part of the music worship team at her church. How perfect, I thought.
Is there anything that you were introduced to twenty years ago that you may now be ready to fully explore?
That is just one of many questions you can ask yourself to help you connect with your lifelong learning goals.
- Lifelong learners know that it’s never too late to learn something new.
- Is there something you have explored fully during your life that you would like to share with others?
- Yes, make time for learning new things, but also to teach. (One always learns from teaching.)
- Share your lifelong learning, life lessons, your experiences (including the fumbles and game-winners) with others.
We, the committed lifelong learners, are eager to hear what you have to say.
Please connect with me if you would like to discuss the possibility of writing a book. I would love to help you get clear on your ideas and I can answer any questions.
