“I Don’t Learn That Way”: Embracing Effective Learning Methods
Have you ever sat on the sidelines, watching others learn something new, and thought, “I don’t learn that way”? It’s like sitting on the dock watching a swim class without getting wet. You’re just watching.
Today, we have access to so much information online. There are videos, podcasts, and interactive courses that can teach us almost anything. But how do we make sure we’re really learning and not just watching?
From my experience, two methods stand out for learning effectively, even if they’re a bit uncomfortable:
- Doing it poorly before doing it well: It’s okay to be bad at something when you first start. Making mistakes is part of learning. By trying and failing, you eventually get better. This hands-on approach helps you understand and master new skills more deeply.
- Learning with others: Working with friends or classmates can make learning more effective. When you share ideas, get feedback, and collaborate, you understand things better and remember them longer. This mutual support helps everyone grow and learn more.
Some people say they learn best by reading summaries or watching tutorials, but these methods often don’t lead to real mastery. If something is important to learn, I encourage you to try these two methods. Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty, make mistakes, and engage with others. It might feel uncomfortable at first, but the benefits are worth it.
So next time you’re tempted to just watch from the dock, remember that true learning means jumping in, making mistakes, and working together. Don’t just watch—get involved and experience the real process of learning.
