1. use e-learning platforms for flexible learning
Thanks to digitisation , there are a variety of online platforms that allow you to learn at your own pace and according to your schedule. These platforms give you access to thousands of courses on various topics that can help you advance professionally or personally:
- Coursera or edX: offer courses from world-leading universities such as MIT and Harvard
- Domestika: Offers a wide range of online courses, from programming to photography.
- LinkedIn Learning: Ideal for developing professional skills with a focus on business, technology and creativity.
The flexibility of these platforms allows you to learn when it suits you. This makes it easier for you to effectively integrate lifelong learning into your everyday life.
2. rely on micro-learning
Instead of spending hours studying, "micro-learning" can be an effective method. Learning in small chunks of 5 to 15 minutes a day can be surprisingly effective and easier to fit into a busy daily schedule. You can use these apps to do this and get some topic inspiration:
- Blinkist or Snackz: 15- 20 minute summaries of non-fiction books. With Snackz you can even choose between English and German as the output language
- Quizlet: Helps you learn vocabulary or technical terms with digital flashcards.
3. set priorities and create fixed learning times
A decisive factor in finding time for learning is setting clear priorities. Analyze your daily routine and determine which time slots you can reserve for learning - be it early in the morning on the way to work, during your lunch break or in the evening on the way home. By scheduling fixed learning times, learning becomes a routine, similar to sport or other commitments.
4. integrate learning into your daily work routine
Use your day-to-day work as a learning environment by viewing new tasks and challenges as learning opportunities. Take on projects tasks that require you to develop new skills or ask colleagues for feedback and knowledge transfer.
5. also see your everyday life as a place to learn and train
Informal learning often takes place in passing - while reading an article, listening to a podcast or discussing current topics. Take advantage of these learning and development opportunities by, for example:
- Listen to podcasts on the way to work (e.g. "Skills@home - The Podcast for competence development).
- Watch videos on YouTube that give you new views and perspectives (e.g. TED Talks).
- Read specialist magazines or blogs to educate yourself in your field of interest.
- Consciously take on tasks in clubs or institutions or within the family (e.g.: organizing festivities, planning the weekly shopping etc.)
6. become part of learning groups and networks
Join a learning group, whether online or offline. Exchanging ideas with others motivates you and helps you to understand learning content better. You can also join LinkedIn groups or attend Meetups to meet like-minded people and learn together. These social interactions can promote informal learning and expand your professional network at the same time.
7. use digital tools for time planning
Organize your learning process with digital tools such as Trello, Notion or Google Calendar. These tools help you to set learning goals, track your progress and set reminders for study times. This way, you can keep track of your learning plan and stay motivated for longer.
Conclusion: Finding a balance between work, everyday life and learning
Lifelong learning doesn't have to be a stressful endeavor. With the right planning, the use of digital tools and a combination of formal and informal learning, you can continuously learn new things despite a full-time job or a busy schedule. Focus on micro-learning units, use digital platforms and make learning an integral part of your everyday life - both professionally and privately. This will not only help you keep your finger on the pulse, but also boost your Personal development and employability.
Author: Luisa Cimmino (Sociologist & Communications Manager at skillaware)
