When we’re finished with school, whether it was decades ago or just a few months, we tend to think, “Phew! No more being chained to a classroom. No more finals!” But, while your formal education is done, you should never stop learning. Learning on the job, in between jobs, or as a side job is the best way to invest in yourself and there are at least 3 ways to do it. Read on.
1-On the job learning. If you’re new in your position, you’ll be learning a lot, especially in the first few months or, perhaps, years. But after you’ve nailed all the duties on your job description, there is still more you can do. Want that promotion? Learn what it takes to be working at the next level. What skills and experience do you need to get there and how can you practice in place? If a next-level position isn’t available right now, how about broadening your skill set in your current job? What extra duties could you take on that would benefit your company? What could you learn now so that you’re ready when the opportunity comes up?
2-In between jobs learning. If you’re in between jobs, this is one of the best times to invest in yourself. While you apply and interview for something new, what new skills are you practicing? Are you taking a class or doing self-study on some new office software? Have you been reading industry publications to keep up with trends? Have you attended any industry functions to learn more about competitors?
3-Learning as part of a side gig. Maybe you’ve started a side project. It has nothing to do with your career (at least not yet) but keeps you fresh and creative and helps you come up with great ideas at work. Any new side project involves lots of learning whether it’s via books, the internet, a mentor, or trial and error.
Just because our formal education stops, doesn’t mean we stop getting an education. The best way to invest in yourself is to stay curious, learn new skills, and practice them. It takes time and effort but it always pays off.
