“…we can say that Muad’Dib learned rapidly because his first training was in how to learn. And the first lesson of all was the basic trust that he could learn. It is shocking to find how many people do not believe they can learn, and how many more believe learning to be difficult. Muad’Dib knew that every experience carries its lesson.” -Dune, by Frank Herbert
The human mind has a voracious appetite for information. Yet, it has always amazed me how many people assume that they they cannot learn new skills. Contrary to popular myth, recent studies show that the human brain maintains the ability to learn and grow new neurons throughout our entire lives, not just childhood. The brain, like any other muscle, requires continuous exercise to prevent atrophy and permanent decay.
I have 5 year old twin daughters. I find it revealing how few things we actually taught them. Every day they use new words, perform new physical feats, and make previously unimaginable connections. It is rare that any of these things were taught to them. Their brains are devoted to the task of learning and it is not difficult. We all began our lives the same way. Somewhere between Calculus and English Literature we were taught the learning should be hard.
Secrets to continuous learning:
- Decide that it is easy to learn. It may sound silly, but the biggest reason why people stop learning is that they believe they cannot learn. The mind craves new things, but we often limit ourselves by deciding what our limitations are. We rob ourselves of the opportunity and joy of learning.
- Have Confidence. Once you have decided it is easy to learn, start to act like it. Put yourself into situations where you have to learn or fail. It is amazing how a little bit of adrenaline can aid in your ability to learn.
- Concentrate on patterns not details. Our brains are powerful pattern matching machines. In school we were taught to memorize facts, but which is more important, the date of the Normandy invasion or the ramifications of the Normandy invasion.
- Something you Enjoy. It should go without mention, but I have seen so many people decide to learn something impressive that they don’t really enjoy. Learning is about you and your enjoyment.
- Make it Fun. Lets face it, “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.” Learning like any other skill only sets in if you really enjoy it.
Make a commitment today to learn one new thing and enjoy the process. Share in the comments what you are choosing to learn.
