The Perpetual Student
2009 October 7
Without getting existential, it seems apparent that we are here on Earth to learn and grow. On a never-ending knowledge quest, the perpetual student strives toward self-actualization and beyond, extracting all the juicy morsels of knowledge he can uncover.
The perpetual student doesn’t sit idly. Even with a demanding schedule, the student of life carves out time for study. Operating with discipline, commitment and willingness, making an excuse of “not enough time” isn’t an option.
The perpetual student:
- Reads with pen in hand. Should we only highlight a book and take notes if we’re studying for an exam? Read for knowledge. Active readers approach a book with voracity and a strong will to learn and understand.
- Takes notes. You never know when you’re going to hear an inspirational quote or a transformational idea. Keep a journal in your back pocket or use a notes App on your iPhone. Review your notes on a regular basis.
- Explores new areas of inquiry. Be willing to go into areas of study you know nothing about. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can learn the basics of any field. Then, you can draw parallels and connections to what you already know.
- Listens to audio programs. Time spent in a car can be vital educational time. Listen to books on CD, information-based talk shows and audio programs from companies like Nightingale-Conant. Instead of zoning out on your daily commute, hone into something meaningful.
- Attends lectures. School is never out for the perpetual student. Today, there is a wealth of available lectures and seminars on virtually every topic. Your city might have Learning Annex classes or seminar centers. Most universities have distance-learning programs. TED has become a wellspring of educational, inspirational and entertaining lectures that you can watch online or download to your mobile device.
It doesn’t take long to see the positive effects of living the life of a student.
The creative life calls for greater knowledge. Are you ready to answer the call?
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