Never Stop Learning + 7 Links to Get You Started
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Here's the thing, I'm 31 and I've been a student for more than 25 years. I've graduated from college twice and I'm currently enrolled in another diploma program and an advanced diploma online. Sounds crazy right? During some point in my life, I was able to recognize the privilege of growing up in a technological age, and I made a promise to myself to never stop learning. Truth, my generation is extremely privileged to have the ability to learn without limits or boundaries. And we should not take it for granted.
For me, it's important to continually embrace my inner child and ask Why? What? and How? This is the root of curiosity, and this is what inspires me to learn. College/University education might not be your thing, and that's fine, but learning new skills or improving skills you already have is incredibly important. Continuous learning is beneficial for healthy and fulfilled lives. Need more convincing?.....Check out some of the benefits below:
Brain Power - If you don't use, you will lose it. Learning keeps your mind sharp as you age.
Confidence - Imagine how much more confident you would be if you participated in a discussion and had the knowledge to back up what you are saying.
Health - The more knowledgeable and informed you are, the better decisions you will make. Say for example, your nutrition and exercise choices.
Inspires Creativity - Creativity breeds knowledge, knowledge breeds creativity. Point blank.
Helping/Teaching Others - the more you know, the more you can help. Knowledge is power that is meant to be shared. Sprinkle that shit everywhere!!
Want to learn but don't know where to start, check out the links below:
Chances are you have probably heard about Udemy somewhere before. It is definitely one of the largest online course marketplaces around. They feature a wide range of categories from Business, Software, Marketing, Design, Photography, Music and more. Prices are great and are typically between $15-$200 (CAD) but sales are pretty frequent. I managed to find a Photography Masterclass on sale for $19. Score!!
If Web Design, Coding or App Development is more your thing, than Team Treehouse is perfect for you. Some features include over 200 courses, an affordable monthly plan and best of all - a free 7 day trial. Try it - see if you like it.
3. Coursera
Coursera is amazing in that it features courses from some of the worlds best universities.. Some category highlights include Arts & Humanities, Computer Science, Life Sciences and Social Sciences. Prices range from $29 - $99, plus they also offer certificate programs. Time to upgrade that résumé.
4. Skillshare
Skillshare is definitely one of my favourites. I love that the course selection is so vast. Course options range from Fine Art, Illustration, Entrepreneurship, Accounting, Web development, Finance - and the list goes on and on and on. The best thing about Skillshare is the price - $12/month or $96/year. This gives you access to over 14,000 classes. Yes, over 14,000 classes! Did I mention you get 30 days free unlimited access. The possibiliities here are endless.
5. Drawspace
Have you ever wished you could draw, but in reality the only thing you are good at is drawing a stick figure. Well, Drawspace is for you, and it's incredible. Not only is it affordable with member rates at $9.50/month or their unlimited plan at $149/year, but 15% of the courses are free. FREE!!
Definitely catered to the creative types, Brit + Co is great for boosting your creativity. Courses focused on Lettering, Illustration and Design are sure to get your creative juices flowing. Class prices range from $19 - $39. You can't go wrong!!
7. Duolingo
I'm sure you have heard about Duolingo before. Personally, I've had the app version on my tablet for a couple years now and I still love it. I find it most useful for learning the basics of a new language before travelling to a foreign country. However, duolingo is not just for the traveller, it's handy for anyone looking to learn a new language. Best part: It's free!!
I Hope this inspires you to keep on learning. What courses are you going to try?