Here in North America, it’s Labour Day (or Labor Day for my American friends). The unofficial end of summer also means it’s back to school time for students across Canada and in some US states. But heading back to school isn’t just for kids. There are many good reasons for people of all ages to set some learning goals.
A few years ago, I attended a presentation about the future of work and learning. The speaker was David Mallon of Bersin, a division of Deloitte. Mallin said today’s workers will need the equivalent of a master’s degree of new knowledge every 10 years to keep pace with how the workplace is changing. This validated something I’ve always believed: Lifelong learning is critical to success.
Some might call me a learning addict. I’ve been taking courses for personal and professional development my entire adult life. I may be retired from my primary career, but I plan to continue learning. I don’t believe there will ever be a time when I will want to stop learning.
Learning Increases in Importance in a Changing World
The 4th industrial revolution we are currently in is introducing change at a pace the world has never seen before. This fundamental shift is reinventing the concept of work. Almost half of today’s jobs could disappear in 10 years. As old jobs disappear, new ones will emerge. Workers will need to continually retrain and upskill to stay relevant.
In short, the days of being able to leave education behind after high school, college or university are long gone.
Benefits of Being a Lifelong Learner
In addition to helping you get that new job, or keep the one you’ve got, being a lifelong learner has other benefits.
- It keeps your brain engaged and your mind sharp. Emerging research shows continual learning can delay age-related memory loss and reduce the risk of dementia.
- Learning opens your mind to new ideas and diverse opinions. In our current political and social environment, that can only be a good thing.
- Taking a class can improve social connections by giving you the opportunity to meet new people who share the same interests as you. A strong social network is a factor in healthy aging.
- Learning something new boosts your confidence. Nothing beats the sense of accomplishment you get from mastering a new skill or achieving an educational milestone.
- It reduces boredom. Studies have shown being bored and having too much time on your hands can be a problem for anyone suffering from mental health issues.
- For parents, being a lifelong learner sets a great example for your kids. I recall a co-worker who graduated from a college program telling me her young daughter asked, “Mommy, why do you go to school? Adults go to work; kids go to school.” She responded with the following quote from C.S. Lewis, which I think is very fitting:
You are never too old to set another goal or dream a new dream.
Opportunities for Learning are Endless
Technology has made it possible to learn just about anything from the comfort of our homes for free. Between YouTube and online platforms like Coursera and EdX, the possibilities are endless. If you prefer in-person learning, your public library or community centre may also offer free or low-cost programs.
What are you waiting for? Sign up for a course today. Your brain will thank you!
I believe in practising what I preach so, later this month, I’m starting the final course in Simon Fraser University’s Plain Language Certificate program.
What will you learn this back-to-school season? Drop me a comment below to let me know.
Learn more about me in my bio and on my personal blog at BoomerEcoCrusader.com. You can also find me on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest.