The pursuit of knowledge is an infinite endeavor. Indeed, no one aspires to know everything, but the beauty of traditional education lies in laying a strong foundation for the unceasing journey of learning and skill acquisition.
Continuing education rests on the principle of lifelong learning—a mindset that champions curiosity, open-mindedness, and the commitment to personal development. Personally, I uphold a rather traditional approach, favouring books and reading over video content. However, I'm also evolving in this aspect. In recent times, my learning has taken a digital turn. Online courses, like the digital marketing course at the London Business School, have transformed my perspective. The material is absorbed more effectively, providing the chance to engage in virtual classes, collaborate on real-world cases, all without the constraints of commuting. What I once considered "Mickey Mouse education" (online learning) has proven to be an incredible avenue, greatly enriching my knowledge and skills repository.
As a former professional athlete, discipline and time management are old companions. My active years hardly permitted full-time education, with 365 days spent in competitions and training camps. Nonetheless, I utilized every opportunity to study languages, explore new subjects, and read. Following my sports career, bridging educational gaps became paramount. Determination and self-discipline emerged as key attributes—equally crucial skills that enabled my late-career transition into an entirely new field, setting me apart from my peers.
In my book "Ball Over the Net," a humorous anecdote is recounted about my initial struggles with office tasks, like operating a printer. This passage captures the essence: "One day, Pierre asked me to make a colour copy of an A3 document printed on one sheet of paper on both sides. Seeing a monster machine that did everything, I didn’t immediately figure out which buttons to press... I remember standing in front of this printer and thinking: 'Here I am, a two-time Olympic medallist, a trainee girl, printing out documents.' However, I immediately dismissed these thoughts. Today I do not know how to do it, but tomorrow it will be a trifle..." Every day is an opportunity to learn; things that once seemed daunting eventually become routine.
Stepping out of one's comfort zone, especially regarding digital technologies after 40, can be intimidating. However, embracing continuous learning is pivotal for adapting, growing, and thriving in a dynamic world. It's like to embarking on a voyage to an uncharted land—a journey necessitating a growth mindset.
Carol Dweck's insightful book "Mindset: The New Psychology of Success" explores this notion. She differentiates between those with a "fixed" mindset, believing abilities are innate, and those with a "growth" mindset, who perceive intelligence as malleable. A growth mindset fuels a thirst for learning, enabling one to confront challenges, persist through setbacks, and embrace hard work as a route to achievement. Constructive criticism is welcomed, and the accomplishments of others serve as inspiration rather than intimidation.
Myself, I align with the growth mindset. Hence, the concept of continuous education seamlessly integrates into my daily life. As a sports marketing manager in a rapidly evolving technological landscape, learning is a constant. Adaptability is paramount in an ever-changing world. Continuous education cultivates resilience, allowing me to navigate transitions, embrace new technologies, and seize emerging opportunities. In essence, it's the perpetual journey of learning that propels me forward.
Comentários