Many people stop learning as soon as they leave school. And some may even say they were not taught how to actually learn while still in the education system. While outdated teaching methods in schools may contribute to this general apathy towards learning, it is just one among many reasons why people stop actively pursuing knowledge outside of school.

What is learning?

According to H.J. Klausmeir, an American educational psychologist, learning is the process of acquiring knowledge, observations, and experience that leads to a change in behavior.

Below are some of the reasons why people stop learning

• They lack motivation. Schools provide the necessary structure and accountability that propel individuals toward learning goals. Without these factors, many struggle to maintain their motivation.
• Demanding jobs, family responsibilities, and other commitments leave no room for active learning.
• Some people simply are simply unaware of various learning opportunities outside of the school system.
• Many individuals fail to recognize the practical applications of learning in their daily lives or careers.
• Financial constraints such as limited access to the internet, lack of computers or mobile devices, and other financial barriers make it challenging for many people to actively pursue learning. This is especially true in low-income countries.

It is important to note that learning is an ongoing process that occurs unconsciously throughout life, even if one is not aware of it. Interactions with the world can subtly shape thinking, which in turn influences actions.

Despite this, there are compelling reasons why active learning should be embraced throughout life.

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9 Reasons to Never Stop Learning

You become less vulnerable to groupthink

The human mind is a malleable thing. Your experiences can shape your beliefs and actions. But if you don’t have critical thinking skills — skills that you learn by actively asking questions and exploring the solutions — those experiences can end up controlling you. People who are slaves to their ideas become vulnerable to groupthink, cults, conspiracies, and dangerous ideologies.

Never become a slave to an idea. Always consider the value of differing perspectives and remember that at the end of the day, you are not your idea.

You become happier

There’s a certain kind of fulfillment and satisfaction to be had from learning something new or acquiring a new skill. After all, they are goals in themselves. Learning gives you a boost of self-confidence and a sense of accomplishment, which are necessary for a fulfilled life.

This is backed by a study between Oxford University and the Workers Educational Association of England and Scotland which found that people who take classes outside of work report greater mental and physical health and feel greater satisfaction in their lives.

Another study by the San Francisco State University also revealed that those who engage in formal education are happier and more satisfied with their lives.

You become indispensable

People who can quickly learn and adapt to change are considered high-value assets in any field or work environment. They require less training time, can handle new challenges with ease, and are generally found to be resourceful individuals.

This becomes even more relevant in the age of artificial intelligence where new AI-based technologies are quickly changing the way things are getting done. Being a continuous learner helps one anticipate potential changes early on and make smart future-proof decisions to safeguard one’s career in what has become a seemingly unpredictable job market.

We now accept the fact that learning is a lifelong process of keeping abreast of change. And the most pressing task is to teach people how to learn. - Peter Drucker

Learning humbles you

The more you learn about stuff, the more you discover how much more you don’t know. This kind of humility is what you need to keep an open mind for possibilities. Just because you don’t know something doesn’t mean it’s impossible. It is also this kind of humility that is needed for people to be more receptive to collaboration and the constructive exchange of ideas.

Related: How to Be Productive in Disagreement

You’ll make a great coach

There’s no better coach than one who is a child of learning themselves. A coach who is knowledgeable but also humble recognizes that the act of mentorship is a two-way street. You both learn from each other, albeit in different ways. Teaching someone else helps you master the subject matter, also while learning fresh perspectives through the eyes of someone with fresh eyes. Meanwhile, you model what a good mentor does. 

Your humility and receptiveness to their errors will also encourage them to be vulnerable in their learning, to freely make mistakes without judgment, and to know there is someone reliable who can guide them towards the right path along the way.

Learning keeps you healthy

Numerous studies have shown that cognitive engagement through learning can help maintain brain health and delay cognitive decline. By actively engaging our minds and challenging ourselves intellectually, we stimulate neural connections, enhance memory, and improve overall cognitive function. Learning also introduces us to healthy habits and lifestyle choices that contribute to our physical and mental well-being.

This is supported by a few key studies:

• Reading for even a short period reduces stress levels
• Learning can help delay the symptoms of Alzheimer’s
• Learning to play new instruments can help delay cognitive decline
• Learning difficult skills later in life may help improve memory

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Learning keeps your passion alive

Learning nurtures your sense of curiosity, a trait that few people retain in adulthood. When you actively learn, you fuel your sense of wonder. This makes it especially useful for keeping your passion alive and excelling in whatever field you choose.

If you’re open to learning new things, you may discover new dimensions to your passion that can open more doors for new exciting possibilities.

Learning helps you generate creative ideas faster

And it’s not just about the speed of generating such ideas but also the quality of what you produce. If you have a wide treasure trove of knowledge, experience, and background to draw from, you can apply one idea from one discipline to another to generate entirely different processes and ways of doing things. In corporate lingo, this is called innovation. 

Your capacity to innovate can become a very lucrative skill wherever you choose to apply it.

Ways You Can Keep Learning in the Digital Age

In today's digital age, opportunities for learning are more abundant and accessible than ever before. Online platforms offer a vast array of courses, tutorials, and resources, making it easier for individuals to pursue their interests and acquire new skills.

Some of the best free sources of learning in the digital age include:

• Podcasts
• e-books
• Webinars; and
• online communities

All of the above provide avenues for continuous learning and enable individuals to connect with like-minded learners from around the world.

Wisdom is not a product of schooling but of the lifelong attempt to acquire it. - Albert Einstein

Final Words

Learning should never stop at any age; it should be a lifelong habit rather than a chore. By embracing continuous learning, we open ourselves up to a world of possibilities, personal growth, and fulfillment. So, let us never cease our quest for knowledge, for it is through learning that we unlock our true potential and lead extraordinary lives.

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Related: How to Be Productive in Disagreement

• Brower, T., PhD. (2021b, October 17). Learning Is A Sure Path To Happiness: Science Proves It. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/tracybrower/2021/10/17/learning-is-a-sure-path-to-happiness-science-proves-it/?sh=3ad6e58f768e 
• Coleman, J. (2021b, August 27). Lifelong Learning Is Good for Your Health, Your Wallet, and Your Social Life. Harvard Business Review. https://hbr.org/2017/02/lifelong-learning-is-good-for-your-health-your-wallet-and-your-social-life 
• Learning: Definition, Characteristics and Types of Learning in Psychology. (n.d.). https://www.managementstudyguide.com/definition-characteristics-and-types-of-learning-in-psychology.htm