Learning Anything New Is Hard - September 2005

“Kick your legs out behind you! Move your arms!”, I coached my toddler during her swim lesson. I tried to move her body so she was on her tummy, but she squirmed and flipped back upright, like a greased pig in a ruffled pink bikini.

“It’s too hard!”, she whined as she put her arms around my neck.

“Learning anything new is hard,” I explained.

Then I got to thinking about my recent efforts to learn a new programming language. It’s something I’ve been putting off, but if I want to enhance my skills and my clients’ web sites and usability of those sites, I need to do it. I’ve always felt that no matter how good I am at something, I can always do better, and I can’t rest on my laurels for too long, especially in the world of technology.

I’ll be the first to admit that this is easier said than done. Learning anything new is hard, especially as an adult. Whether it’s a programming language, sport, Pilates, or the Tango, learning something new takes mostly motivation, courage and discipline.

Here are some of the top excuses I’ve heard for not learning something new (often from myself):

I’m too old: I’ve heard this one from people in their 20s! On the other hand, I’ve seen senior citizens well into their ‘80s at the library logging into their favorite blogs, and at community centers learning to tap dance. Studies show that learning new things and continuing to challenge your mind keeps you going.

I don’t have time: Yes, it’s a crazed world with jobs, housework, kids, etc. But it’s funny how that no matter how busy people are, they always seem to find the time to do the things they really like to do. If you think about how you really spend your time (especially in front of the TV), you might discover a few extra hours a week!

I can’t afford classes: In some cases, this is a viable excuse. But if you keep your eyes and ears open, you may find affordable ways to learn what you want. For instance, maybe you can’t afford hundreds of dollars for guitar lessons only to find you don’t really like it or have the knack for it. But check your local community center -- classes like this are usually much cheaper and a better way to test the waters.

There are also many books that offer instruction on how to do something. This takes extra discipline as you don’t have set deadlines and an instructor. But it’s cheaper and more flexible, especially if you have a busy lifestyle.

I’m too dumb: No you’re not. Let’s move on.

My husband/wife already knows that, why should I learn?: This is an especially touchy subject when it comes to the traditionally-male realms such as technology and financial management. The fact is that, to quote Cher, “Sooner or later, we all sleep alone.” Maybe not through such dire circumstances as death or divorce, but people get sick, go out of town, or get bogged down with other responsibilities. Wouldn’t it feel great to fend for yourself – or at least know you can?

Do any of these sound familiar? Is there something you want to learn? Great! Now do it!

Now back to my @#@$% programming lessons!