The transformational impact of adult learning and hobbies

Dive into the world of personal and professional success driven by the transformative power of learning new skills and pursuing hobbies.

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on Psychologies

In the wake of the pandemic, many found themselves pondering their true desires and reassessing their professional journey. The significant rise in online course searches during the lockdown period revealed a surge in upskilling and a quest for newfound interests. This shift wasn’t solely about surviving the challenging job market but also about seeking fulfilment beyond Netflix binges. A survey conducted by Allbright, a professional women’s network, disclosed that 61% of women were considering a complete career change, while another poll showed that half of the respondents had adopted new hobbies.

Asking the big questions

Life coach and author, Joanne Mallon, observes a growing courage among individuals to ask profound questions about their lives. She highlights the need for work to have meaning, and people are ready to make significant changes to achieve that. Mallon identifies a state of “drifting along in limbo,” characterised by a lack of purpose and direction, which can trap individuals. Finding one’s purpose, the “why” that propels us forward, is essential.

Making small but impactful shifts

After self-reflection, you might realise that profound changes are not necessary; instead, small adjustments can enhance your current satisfaction and future outlook. Joanne Mallon suggests that you don’t need to join the circus to seek happiness – it could be as simple as enrolling in an evening class, participating in a training course at work, or nurturing your existing passions. Mastery in something you enjoy can serve as a catalyst for future transformation or allow you to relish your hobbies without performance pressure.

Embrace being a beginner

Taking up learning as an adult means returning to a beginner’s mindset – an exhilarating, liberating, and sometimes daunting experience. Marina Marshall, an education consultant, encourages individuals to embrace curiosity and open-mindedness, free from judgment. Learning often involves challenging phases, where things may seem difficult, but that’s entirely normal. Not every venture will be a resounding success, and that’s perfectly okay. Learning for the sheer joy of it can be equally rewarding.

Find your extra hour

If you’re intrigued by trying something new but unsure where to start, consider the question Marina Marshall poses to her clients: “If you suddenly had an extra hour in the day, what would you do with it? What’s the cost-benefit of doing more of that?” Just having this on your radar can steer you towards these activities in your free time.

Reflect on your lockdown activities to gain insights into your values. Understanding your values can provide guidance and help you remain true to them. When we’re clear about our values, it becomes easier to align our actions with them.

The health and career connection

According to the Department for Education, adult learning has a direct link to improved wellbeing, fewer GP visits, and enhanced mental health. Research consistently shows that individuals with a strong sense of purpose tend to live longer and healthier lives. With more people extending their careers, adapting to longer working lives and acquiring new skills is vital. The ever-evolving job landscape demands ongoing learning, making it a highly desirable skill, as indicated by the World Economic Forum’s ‘Future of jobs’ survey.

Discover your passion, enhance your skills, and embark on a journey of continuous learning that not only enriches your life but also makes you a sought-after asset in the professional world.