How to enjoy the learning journey

When I started my learning journey back in 2005, I didn’t know anyone who had done a full-blown career shift! – I don’t recall that I knew anyone who had attended university besides some distant relatives that was considered quite odd by rest of the family. So how did I pursue this challenge? – first I believed that I was capable of learning new skills.

Fast forward then I now realize that I already back then had a Growth Mindset – at least when considering my new learning journey. So, how did a Growth Mindset support me? – by believing that 1) the ability to learn new skills is a matter of the work you put into the learning and not inherent talent, 2) that mistakes are an opportunity to learn, and 3) willing to ask clarifying questions and admit when something is not clear to you.

Was it always easy? – no! Did I always get it right? – no! I had days where it was difficult, and I had days where I simply didn’t get it! Did I give up? – no, never. Because I believed I was able to learn – no matter how difficult it seemed I kept on going. The more difficult the more effort I put into the learning journey.

Now you might wonder how I possible could enjoy the learning journey. Well, by believing that I was able to learn new skills I also understood the joy and the feeling of happiness that I experienced every time I managed to master new skills. I found the joy in sharing my knew knowledge with others and give back to society by supporting young students who – just like me – didn’t have anyone in the close family who had done the journey before they did it. I learned how to enjoy being one of those ‘breaking the patterns’ in a positive sense.

Another important part of having a Growth Mindset is how you see the success of others. With a Growth Mindset you celebrate the success of others and see their success as an inspiration. Same with feedback. You ask feedback from others to become even better – not because you are seeking their approval. You take ownership for your own growth – and your learning journey. You understand that you are in the driver’s seat.

What if you don’t have a Growth Mindset today – is it something you can learn? – yes! Decide that you want to have a different perspective towards life – and learning. Start being open minded. Take ownership. Identify opportunities to celebrate others for their achievements. Set bold goals for your own personal development – inspired by people you admire. Go for it! – and enjoy the learning journey.

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