The Importance Of Continuing Education

Are you considering learning?  Maybe college–or a return to college–is in your future, or maybe you just want to learn a new skill.  Whether you’re pursuing your first degree, your next degree, a certification or just learning something for fun, there are tons of reasons to never stop learning.

Learning new skills, or maybe even refreshing knowledge you already have, is good for your competence. Things change over time, systems and processes evolve, and people get a little rusty.  Whether you choose to learn in a classroom or first-hand while on the job, continuing to learn can ensure you remain competent at whatever it is you do.

Improving your knowledge is also a great boost for your confidence. When you’re struggling, you may subconsciously wonder if you’ve made the right choices, or if others notice that you’re not absolutely nailing it. In a learning environment, you have the opportunity to try new things, experiment with ideas, and reach an understanding that works for you… and that can boost your confidence unlike anything else (especially when coupled with workouts, which are also good for your mind and confidence). 

Learning new skills, and exposing yourself to new ways of thinking, can also open the door for new opportunities.  You make new connections–some of whom are, themselves, well-connected–you develop more competence and confidence, and you can see the world in a whole new way. Many members of VIP membership clubs, like Ariana Society, are committed to an ongoing lifestyle of continuous learning. 

College is expensive these days, but it’s not your only option for learning new skills. If your employer offers educational reimbursement, this benefit can take the sting out of tuition payments, reducing or even eliminating your out-of-pocket expenses.  Many employers–because they recognize the benefits of learning–also offer free in-house training programs. Or, if you want to explore learning something totally new, you can find thousands of free and low-cost courses in massive open online courses (MOOC) offered by services like Udemy and Coursera.

No matter the reason, never stop learning!