It’s the time of year when you’re probably thinking about ways you can improve yourself and your well-being. If you’re looking for a resolution that benefits your mind, career, mental health and social life, making a goal to learn at least one new skill in this year could drastically improve your life.
The benefit of lifelong learning is well documented and researched. Lifelong learning is the continued educational experience that utilizes non-credit academic courses, educational travel and community service to fully engage the brain, heighten physical activity and maintain healthy social relationships.
Skills@UC offers non-credit classes for personal enrichment. With courses led by esteemed UC faculty and experts, you can engage in professional development, educational advancement, and personal enrichment without the commitment of a full degree program.
So, what motivates lifelong learners and why should you get on board? From improving your well-being and mental health to helping you create new relationships, lifelong learning offers a wide array of benefits no matter your age. Here are four reasons to build the foundation of becoming a lifelong learner in the New Year:
- Lifelong learning is good for your brain, mental well-being and self-esteem.
- Continued education can lead to beneficial career advancements.
- Taking new classes will help you gain practical skills.
- Exploring new passions help you connect with like-minded individuals.
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1. Boost your brain health through lifelong learning
You can keep your brain healthy and alert by learning new skills or taking a continuing education class at the University of Cincinnati. Research shows mental activity could stave off age-related cognitive and memory decline. Lifelong learning can also enhance self-esteem while giving you a sense of purpose and hope and feelings of competency. So just the simple — and hopefully joyful — act of enrolling in a class could help your brain function, mental health, as well as grow your self-esteem.
2. Advance your career with new skills
The landscape of the workforce is forever changing and becoming a lifelong learner is one the best things you can do to increase your employability. Show your employer that you’re willing to adapt and continuously learn new skills by taking a new class time in your free time. If you’re not ready to pursue a graduate certificate or master’s degree, you can dabble in a noncredit course to explore a new passion or learn a new skill.
3. Grow your social and professional networks
Have you always wanted to become fluent in another language, but you don’t know where to start? Are you jealous of your friends who cook decadent meals when you’re afraid to pick up a spatula? Whether you’re looking to build on a skill you already have or explore a topic that is completely new to you, continued education can help you develop practical skills that will enrich all aspects of your life.
4. Enrich your life with personal fulfillment
Studies find that people are hard-wired to look for relationships with “like-minded people,” meaning that they have similar interests. Other studies have also found that individuals bond over passions for hobbies and rare interests. You could find a new group of friends bonding over your shared interest in cheesemaking or while practicing your French accent.
Lifelong learning is more than a New Year’s resolution—it’s a powerful mindset that enriches every aspect of life. Whether you’re seeking career growth, better mental health, or personal fulfillment, committing to ongoing education opens doors to endless possibilities. By exploring new skills, building meaningful connections, and challenging yourself, you can keep growing at every stage of life. Start your journey today and unlock the benefits of lifelong learning.
