Fast Learning

Life today is, for most of us anyway, fast-paced. There are so many demands on us, so much information all around us, and technological developments are speeding up this process. We walk 10% faster than we used to. Those who walk quickly are also more likely to speak fast and eat fast. They become impatient when waiting in lines or traffic, and they’re more likely to wear a watch.

As a consequence, our society prioritises rapid outcomes over effort. The hunger to over-perform is indirectly proportional to the pain we are willing to stand. We have come to believe that easy and fast, equal better, maybe even that the best teachers are those who make learning unchallenging. It’s as if all learning has to be fun.

But take a step back. Easy learning is deceiving. Its effects are an illusion; they are anything but long-lasting. Who wouldn’t like to have more “cognitive RAM”? However, there is no replacement for hard work. If things become too easy, they lose value. What is written without effort is read without pleasure.

I am not saying putting in the required effort is easy, but it is going to be worth it. All learning hurts, but have no fear of the pain. The brain never stops changing and adjusting. The challenge of learning keeps it young and active.

Adopting a learning mind is a choice. A learning mind is about embracing the joy and pain of the process, not just the outcome. Let me sum it up with a quote: “If you are not willing to learn, no one can help you. If you are determined to learn, no one can stop you.”—Zig Ziglar