(Commentary) Learning

Life long learning and self-learning are a essential in today's modern world. There is a plethora of tools and free resources that are available today for those who are willing to learn as well. 

But, essentially, learning how to learn? To learn effectively and properly is a skill. 

Effective learning is not a tips or tricks thing but is about the attitude and routine that one has with his or herself. 

This commentary is just a condensation of my opinion on learning effectively. 

1. Know why you are learning something and what is importance of what you are learning

I believe appreciation for what we are learning is what will spark our curiosity. Knowing why we are learning something and its impact fills us with purpose. 

I could have just learned Linux commands but understanding Linux file system and the important of Linux especially for servers fill me in with a sense of appreciation and curiosity to learn more. 

2. Take notes 

It is not just about the act of taking notes but it is about focus. We might lose our attention and focus if we are just listening. The act of taking notes hones our mind into the present. To be observant.

3. Do it, try it out, take action

We will never be able to understand or attain any useful knowledge without the act of application. But, it is understandable that we have a sense of fear. Fear of failure, fear of not knowing enough. Understand your fear, acknowledge it, accept it and take action. 

Take action and fail. It is okay to fail, for the greatest failure is in never trying. 

I am a father now, one lesson that I got is not to overreact when the child falls. There is a Chinese study that found out that the children who go on succeed in life are ones whose parents did not react overtly when they feel down as a child. This gave them the precognition that failure is part of learning. 

Imagine you as a child read books on walking but never attempted because you were afraid of falling. Sure, you would have has a PHD in walking but never done what make as a second nature to most. 

4. Reflect 

Reflect on your learning. Your failures, your trails and your successes. 

This blog is a part of my reflection process. This blog is a part of my learning. 

5. Take a break 

A real break, with no phones or TV. Take breaks from time to time to avoid burn outs.

Consistent learning is what matters. Consistency is the key. 

This are my opinion and comments on learning. I may be wrong, I may have not formed my opinion fully. But, I am susceptible to change if it is for the better. 

Thank you!