What Is Lifelong Learning And Why It Is So Important?

Lifelong Learning is a form of self-motivated learning that is focused on personal development and professional development. While many think of learning as only taking place in formal educational institutes such as school or university, there are many other ways to increase your knowledge and improve the skills you need in life that take place beyond the school walls.

 

Personal fulfilment and development play into one’s interests, curiosity, and motivations that encourage us to learn. This makes lifelong learning rewarding in itself! For example, many of us might want to increase our knowledge and skills for a hobby we enjoy, research on an activity we want to try, or even choose to take a degree later in life. These are examples of daily lifelong learning that we participate in, either through socialisation, trial and error, or self-motivated study.

 

Demonstrating a thirst for lifelong learning can also make one more desirable to employers. Employers are constantly looking for people with specialised and transferable skills, as well as a willingness to learn and improve. They want employees who proactively participate in continuous learning as they are more adaptable and relevant. From a financial perspective, a highly skilled and experienced employee is an asset to any business and they tend to get more opportunities for progression and pay increment.

 

Furthermore, there are many other long-term benefits of lifelong learning. Here are some of them.

 

Keeps you motivated

Sometimes we get stuck in a routine and simply do things because we have to, such as going to work every weekday. If you find yourself losing interest in what you do, learning something new or honing your skills can further spark your interests and motivate you to achieve higher career goals.

 

Improvement in skills

As we learn new skills or gain new knowledge, we are also developing other useful skills that can benefit our personal and professional lives. Skills development can include interpersonal skills, imagination, problem-solving, critical thinking, teamwork, adaptability, and many more.

 

Self-confidence

Becoming more knowledgeable can enhance our confidence in both our personal and professional lives. Taking an online course or learning a new hobby can provide a tremendous boost to your self-confidence.

 

Stay connected

Participating in courses and interacting with people gives you many opportunities to meet new people and connect. If you want to expand your connections and avoid becoming out of touch, one of the best decisions you can make is to continue learning.

 

Keep your brain healthy

Continuous learning is heathy for your brain. Studies have shown that learning keeps our brain cells functioning at optimum levels, slowing mental decline as we age. Since the brain is like a muscle, the more you use it – such as by giving it new challenges and opportunities for learning and growth – the stronger it gets.

 

Conclusion

Whether you are following your personal interests and passions or chasing professional ambitions, lifelong learning can help you attain personal fulfilment and achieve your career goals. Lifelong Learning Institute (LLI) is a learning hub in Singapore where you can sign up for skills development courses to upskill yourself. Check out the courses that the training providers at LLI offer today!

 

Credit Sources: Valamis, Skills You Need, Study.com

Posted on 17/03/21