How to Find Our Next Learning Adventure

The need for continuous learning has become a basic necessity because it keeps our minds active and our brains engaged. But a question often arises: what should I learn next?

Well, I believe the answer is not found in a predetermined list or a random selection of trending topics. It’s discovered through the art of doing, conversing, and the understanding of our current strength. I want to talk through them one by one.

The Art of Doing

When we roll up our sleeves and dive into a project, we often encounter obstacles. It’s usually at these moments we say to ourselves: “God, I wish I knew how to solve this.”

Remind yourself of the last time you thought that, and congratulations, you’ve found something you want to learn.

If you can’t remember such a time, then just start doing things. Begin that project you’ve been pondering, and let the gaps in your knowledge guide you to your next learning quest

This is learning with purpose. Each new piece of knowledge is a tool to overcome obstacles, and you’re not just learning; you’re problem-solving.

The knowledge sticks because it’s relevant, necessary, and immediately applicable to your task at hand.

Engage with the Great Minds

In the book written by my professor Mark Beal, 101 Lessons They Never Taught You In College, there’s one lesson that I marked and executed ever since: recruit your ‘Rabbis’, or as I prefer to say, ‘find yourself a mentor.’”

Don’t think of mentor as a wise, sophisticated, and old “philosopher”. Any individuals whose achievements resonate with our aspirations, they can be our mentor.

Engage with them, ask them what they’ve learned, what they’ve found invaluable on their journey. Their endorsements carry weight because they usually share our passions and goals.

There’s a common pitfall here: following some celebrities’ book list. Because I fell into that myself.

I recall following Bill Gates’ reading list, captivated by the breadth of his selections. While some books have indeed sparked insights, others have sat untouched on my shelf.

Even the most respected figures have tastes that may not align with ours. Seek recommendations, but filter them through the lens of your interests personal goals.

Guide By the Map You Have in Hand

Before knowing what’s next, we should all know: what’s now? We need a map before we take off.

Think about what we’re already good at, what we have spent time learning, and what we’ve committed to mastering.

Deepen our learning on that topic and broaden it centered on it. Digging into a single topic is good, but not enough. Know what is related, what supports the knowledge, and what will complement it.

Moreover, finding the relationships between topics that we’ve learned but not yet connected offers opportunities for creativity and innovation.

When you cannot think of a new area that you want to learn with the first two methods, remember that retaining well-entrenched knowledge is much easier and beneficial than venturing into something random and brand new.

I’ve got my map in hand, and you’re welcome to create your own!

My knowledge map

It’s a blessing that we have spare time and energy to choose what to learn at our free will. So treasure that opportunity and choose wisely.

Our learning endeavors should be as dynamic as our projects, as engaging as the conversations we cherish, and as unique as our own journey.

Good luck on finding your next learning!