Every month, it seems like there’s a new app to download, a new system to master, or a new technology to learn. That is why some of us feel compelled to keep up so that we don’t fall behind. The same may be said for the labour market. The demands and skills of all types of work are evolving rapidly, which means we need to be prepared for future roles that may emerge. 

Frankly, it’s impossible to predict which skills will be in demand in the future and which will become obsolete. Hence, we need to learn a new mindset, one that constantly adapts to this ever-changing environment. To spark this mindset shift, we might need to adopt a new approach: Lifelong learning. 

What is Lifelong Learning? 

Lifelong learning is the continuous, voluntary, and self-initiated pursuit of knowledge. It encompasses many different forms of learning, which means learning to better support ourselves, our jobs, or even our communities! Being a lifelong learner requires a growth mentality and a natural curiosity about the world.

Benefits of Lifelong Learning

Integrating lifelong learning into our lives can offer several benefits. Here are a few:

1. Increases adaptability skills

Given the rate at which the job market is changing as a result of digitalisation, adaptability can be a challenge for some of us who have worked in the same industry for many years, and are used to the conventional way of doing things. A lifelong learning mindset can help us shift our perspective and increase our adaptability.

When we constantly push ourselves to learn new skills, we increase our ability to cope with change, no matter how serious it may be. If we reskill and upskill ourselves to new technologies and processes relevant to our profession, we may learn how to handle and respond to change more effectively. It will also demonstrate to our employers that we are committed to our professional growth, increasing our chances of getting better job opportunities and higher compensation.

2. Improves mental health

Lifelong learning, according to a team from the University of Zurich Research Priority Program, stimulates our curiosity and intellect, allowing us to use our brains to their full potential. Our brains become healthier as we engage our minds in activities such as expanding our vocabulary, playing music, and attending seminars. Furthermore, lifelong learning provides additional health benefits such as decreased stress and depression, improved cardiovascular health, and increased immunity.

3. Enhances social skills

Being a lifelong learner can encourage us to seek out relationships with others, who can engage us in discussions about current events and teach us new skills. By participating in webinars, volunteering within our community, or joining a bookclub, we can open our lives, meet new people, and expand our network for additional expertise. So, if we don’t want to become disconnected from the modern world, we might have to keep learning while also surrounding ourselves with people who can encourage us to expand our minds and growth experiences.

As the future of work evolves, lifelong learning can be the key to enhancing our adaptability, well-being, and social skills. It has the potential to help us navigate the uncertainty that everyone is going to face in the future. However, in order to cultivate a lifelong learning mentality, we must have a genuine interest in growing at every level of our careers, with continuous encouragement and motivation from our leaders and management. SSA Innovations fosters a culture of lifelong learning and training to keep businesses at the forefront of innovation. We provide digital solutions, such as e-Learning, immersive applications, and management systems to help businesses become future-ready. Also, we have training services for employees to help them reach their full potential. Contact us today and we’ll be delighted to help!