Harvard Business Review’s Post

You don't need to make it a decision, you don't need to make it a habit. Learning is an inevitable lifelong process, which happens whether you want it or not. From the moment we are born and until we die, every day we learn new things. We learn from books, from our environment, from our interactions with other people, from our mistakes. It is impossible to stop learning, and quite difficult to unlearn things we already know.

Here’s a thought: "Stop evolving, start devolving." No more trying to keep up with the latest trends or learning new skills. Just sit back, relax, and embrace your inner caveman. Forget about emails, social media, and that endless cycle of self-improvement. Instead, we can just enjoy the simple pleasures of life – like figuring out how to make fire or inventing the wheel. Honestly, it sounds like a breath of fresh air. We’ve become so obsessed with ‘lifelong learning’ and ‘personal growth,’ when maybe, just maybe, we’re missing out on the pure, unadulterated joy of doing absolutely nothing productive. So, here’s to devolving! A life less complicated, more relaxed, and infinitely more amusing.

And importantly, so, learn broadly. It's ok to specialize, but as humans, it's inevitable that we'd have >1 interest. Never be afraid to come out from your comfort zone, the field that you are in, and learn a different field or topic, etc. You may think that it's overwhelming and that you need to know everything. This is not true - you just need to know the basics and just continue learning and applying what you learn, in different areas you are interested in - learn and grow! When you wake up in the morning and by the evening, you should Not be the same person - meaning, you should have learnt at least something, and try to do this every day. 🚀

Great article! An additional perspective to consider is the role of lifelong learning in building resilience. In a world where change is the only constant, those who continually seek new knowledge are better prepared to adapt to unexpected challenges and shifts in their personal and professional lives. Continuous learning creates a mindset of growth and flexibility, enabling individuals to navigate uncertainties with confidence and creativity. Thus, making learning a lifelong habit not only enriches our minds but also equips us with the resilience to thrive in an ever-evolving world.

This article is a joke, and a poor reflection on the Harvard Business Review brand. How surprising. Becoming a person who loves to learn - and earn - requires work? Why do people even subscribe to the HBR anymore?

I am always learning something new. So much so that when my boss gives me something interesting to investigate, she warns me not to go "down the rabbit hole". I also have ADHD, so it's nothing for me to look up something online and get stuck in hyperfocus mode. I make it a point to spend some time each week taking training that wasn't assigned to me as part of my role. I encourage my team to do the same. Learning is growing!

Absolutely agree! It's fascinating how the small, consistent steps we take daily can lead to profound growth over time. What strategies have you found most effective in making learning a habit?

Thanks for sharing insights

THE PURPOSE OF A LEADER IS FOR HIS EXAMPLE TO BE THE EVOLUTION OF THOSE WHO WILL BE THEIR BEST VERSION. THAT IS HIS LEGACY. 😉