But while this subtle "fear tactic" may have worked for some people, others remain skeptical or indignant - "my job requires basic skills and I am happy with that; I don't want to put myself through skills upgrading just to get a better job. I am too lazy. besides, I haven't been laid off yet" seems to be the kind of mentality they have. The fear of being made irrelevant simply isn't real enough or motivation enough for them to adopt an attitude of constant learning. And even if they do take up skills upgrading, they do so with reluctance and doubt.
These people are not able to embrace lifelong learning because for them, it is become something academic or only of commercial value. But cultivating an enthusiasm for learning is much more than that. It's a tool for happiness.
Human beings were not made for inactivity, whether physical or mental. To continue functioning at our peak, we need to keep challenging ourselves. Many people feel lost or stuck these days because they have stopped challenging themselves; they have stopped learning and experiencing new things. And because they have stopped stepping out of their routines, they rarely meet new people, engage in fresh conversations, or discuss novel ideas. This affects their relationships as well. Lonely and dateless? Try acquiring a new skill! It is the easiest way to meet like-minded people.
An attitude of constant learning also helps boost your self esteem. If you are enthusiastic about learning, you are consistently picking new knowledge, which helps you feel good about yourself. You are also less fearful of new situations because at the very least, you will learn something you can use to improve yourself. Even little tips and tricks you pick up from here and there help you develop a confidence which in turn helps you tackle other challenges.
Constantly seeking new knowledge also exposes you to more opportunities to make your life better; and I don't mean just making you more valuable as a worker, it can also hook you up with potential benefactors or partners, friends, more wealth-creating opportunities, self-discovery and so on
And the learning experience does not have to be dull either. Don't force yourself to take up an activity you dislike; start with the things you love or think you could enjoy; if you keep your eyes and ears open, no doubt they will lead you on to other opportunities!
Eugine Loh, 938Live, MediaCorp Pte Ltd
