There are two definitions of learn, which I absolutely love
– to acquire knowledge of, or skill in, by study, instruction, or experience:
– to gain (a habit, mannerism, etc.) by experience, exposure to an example
The 1st definition applies to what most of us did in school. It is more attuned to the art of education. Some will argue at the effectiveness or use of this method of learning and if you’re anything like me, wonder how igneous rocks; geometry; or 5yrs studying Computer Engineering make me better in my vocation as a Beauty consultant ☺. What I can’t deny, though, is the fact that the structured school environment helped me develop skills in research & time management. What is transferred within those walls goes beyond the course or subject studied; rather it instils discipline and the ability to apply proven methods in reaching a solution. Notably, Jiddu Krishnamurti said – “There is no end to education. It is not that you read a book, pass an examination, and finish with education. The whole of life, from the moment you are born to the moment you die, is a process of learning“ which buttresses the 2nd definition – gaining experience… Learning is continuous and will also take place as we expose ourselves to examples and experiences of people and circumstances around us.
As I find myself in social circles, I realise that what you spend time learning will always be evident in your dressing, mannerisms, attitude to life and perhaps most importantly, the value system we develop, portray and pass on to future generations. I can’t over-emphasise the importance of becoming a self-learner and have the desire to improve and increase our knowledge base daily. One great way of constantly improving ourselves is by reading books – you would be surprised at just how much you can learn. Lately I set myself a challenge to read at least 1 book every month. At first, I found I was completely forgetting everything in the book as soon as I finished it. I therefore tweaked it a bit and now focus on just reading 1 chapter a day, early in the morning. I immediately began to see results as I had the opportunity to ponder the ideas and knowledge gained in the book all through the day; I found I myself retaining the information better and for longer and therefore, was more able to apply the knowledge I gained from the books. I believe it was Confucius who said “He who learns but does not think, is lost! He who thinks but does not learn is in great danger.” This should stir us to not just learn or read for the sake of it but to be determined to think through all we learn and find ways of applying it to situation and circumstances around us because there is a purpose to learning. It should bring change…