Young people like us in all parts of the world spend a significant part of their early lives toiling within the four walls of our schools under the guise of ‘learning.’ We are subjected to rigorous memorization and a critical understanding of concepts and history. We are told that we must learn these things to function in society and live our best lives.
But the truth is, schooling is not all that learning is about. Learning isn’t mandatory, nor is it linear. It is organic, unpredictable, and subtle. As life progresses, we become more experienced and expand our knowledge base. We learn from our mistakes, from our successes, from our peers, and our mentors. We learn through thought, discussion, and observation.
Learning is not time-bound. It can be experienced at any time, no matter your age. We are constantly presented with opportunities to grow and expand our knowledge. You might reach a point where you know a lot about a certain subject, but you can always continue learning new information about that topic or something else. Learning is an ongoing process for everyone, no matter how old you are.
Researchers have conducted multiple studies that support this idea. They found that our learning ability increases with age and that human intelligence can improve even in old age. One study showed that the average adult could learn new information and skills as quickly as a child if they apply themselves to it.
Learning is a defining trait of living. Thus, in life, we never truly stop learning. As long as we are alive, we can explore and experience. We will continue to grow, challenge ourselves, and experience new things.
Life is a series of learning experiences. To learn is to live. To live is to be aware and interact with ideas and your immediate environment and bring about positive change. Learning is discovering and using our true potential to create a better life for ourselves and those around us. The day you stop learning is the day you die. And If you stop learning while you are alive, you become a zombie, a walking dead.
Let’s end with Vladimir Kotelnihov’s words: If you stop learning, you stop creating and becoming history
Therefore, you never truly stop learning as long as you are alive and breathing. Remember, learning is not only limited to formal education or classrooms. You can continue exploring, uncovering, and understanding the world around you. You can find new ways to challenge yourself by expanding your knowledge, questioning your preconceived assumptions, and exploring unfamiliar concepts and ideas.
Teens Meet Outreach 