The Power of Lifelong Learning and Publicly Sharing Your Progress

The Power of Lifelong Learning and Publicly Sharing Your Progress

In today's rapidly changing world, traditional education systems are no longer sufficient to prepare individuals for long-term success. Universities and curricula, designed around the three unities of French classical tragedy (time, action, and place), have historically focused on providing education during one's 20s. However, it is essential to recognize that learning in your 20s is not enough. With the rapid diffusion and implementation of technology, individuals must constantly refresh their skills to keep up with the evolving demands of the job market.

To address this challenge, universities need to prioritize lifelong learning and equip students with future-proof skills. Instead of solely focusing on making students 'job-ready,' universities should aim to teach both foundational knowledge and up-to-date skills that can be continually updated throughout one's career. By doing so, diplomas, similar to passports, could be revalidated periodically, ensuring that individuals stay relevant and adaptable in the face of technological advancements.

While universities play a crucial role in fostering lifelong learning, individuals also have a responsibility to take charge of their own learning journeys. This is where the concept of "learning in public" comes into play. Often, there is a dichotomy in schools of thought when it comes to learning, hustling, or creating: some advocate for doing in silence and only showcasing the end product, while others emphasize the importance of showing the process and progress publicly.

Learning in public offers several benefits. Firstly, it creates accountability. When you share your progress with others, you are more likely to stay committed to your goals and make consistent efforts towards improvement. Secondly, it establishes a feedback loop. By inviting others to provide feedback, you gain valuable insights and perspectives that can help refine your skills and knowledge. Thirdly, it allows you to see your progress. Documenting your journey and reflecting upon your growth over time can be incredibly motivating and provide a sense of accomplishment. Lastly, learning in public helps in building a community/following. By sharing your work and process, you can connect with like-minded individuals, collaborate, and learn from each other.

Austin Kleon, in his book "Show Your Work!", emphasizes the importance of letting go of our egos and sharing our process. By doing so, we create the possibility of forming ongoing connections with others, which can propel our growth and success. As journalist David Carr once stated, "No one is going to give a damn about your résumé; they want to see what you have made with your own little fingers." By actively creating and sharing our work, we attract attention and opportunities.

Furthermore, learning in public goes beyond personal development; it also has future value. By publicly documenting your progress, you create a valuable resource that can be revisited later. Not only does this benefit you by allowing you to track your growth, but it also benefits others who can learn from your experiences and insights. Curation, in a way, becomes a form of creation itself.

In conclusion, lifelong learning and publicly sharing your progress are two powerful approaches to success in today's world. Universities must adapt their curricula to prioritize lifelong learning, equipping students with the necessary tools to continually refresh their skills. Simultaneously, individuals should embrace the concept of learning in public, creating accountability, fostering a feedback loop, witnessing their progress, and building communities. By combining these approaches, individuals can stay relevant, adaptable, and connected in an ever-changing landscape.

Actionable advice:

1. Embrace lifelong learning by actively seeking out opportunities to acquire new skills and knowledge throughout your career. Don't limit your learning to your 20s; make it a lifelong pursuit.
2. Share your progress and process publicly. Whether through social media, blogging, or other platforms, document and share your journey. Invite feedback and engage with a community of learners.
3. Continually curate and review your progress. Use the resources you create as a source of reflection and inspiration. Look back on how far you've come and use it as motivation to keep pushing forward.

Remember, success is no longer solely about what you know; it's also about how you adapt, grow, and connect with others. Embrace the power of lifelong learning and learning in public to unlock your full potential.