I heard an astounding statistic the other day. Once you reach age 33, you stop listening to new music. How wild is that? But then I started thinking about it, and, if I am honest with myself, it has been a long time since I have listened to something new. And I am not even 33 yet! I always find myself going back to the familiarity and nostalgia of music that I know.
Then I started thinking about how true this is for most things in our adult lives. When was the last time we learned something new? I am not talking about learning new things because you were forced to due to circumstance or because your children are growing. I am talking about the last time you learned something new for you. As a mother of young children, I have found that it is easy to hit motherhood and stop choosing to learn new things. I mean, honestly, when you enter parenthood, it feels like you are constantly learning and re-learning things.
So why should we choose to learn something new for ourselves?
The Why
When we learn new things, some amazing things happen. We build mental strength and increase our ability to adapt. Think of it like walking a trail. The more frequently a trail is walked, the easier it is to walk in the future. The more frequently we learn something new, the easier it becomes to learn. Research has even shown that learning new things can decrease the likelihood of dementia!
As we do new things, we will often find ourselves in new places meeting new people. Whether it is a five-minute or a life-long connection, we can bond and create new memories. We are also likely to bring people along with us on the journey, whether that is in person or through social media posts. It has even been shown that learning new things increases our social skills! Since we know more skills, we are able to relate to more people and make more connections.
Also, we learn things about ourselves and others. We learn what we enjoy and what we do not enjoy. When we discover what we do not enjoy, we gain an appreciation for those who do what we cannot stand to do.
New Things to Try
Wondering what to try? Here are a few suggestions.
- Learn a new language
- Do a DIY craft like a door hanger
- Try a new gym class or new instructor
- Make a new meal
- Get a new certification
- Do a new puzzle
- Visit a new park or local market
- Try a food or drink you have never tasted before
- Listen to a new podcast or read a new genre
- Sign up for a 5k or do a triathlon
Pick out one or two things to do that have minimal resistance, then progress to more difficult things that require more time or financial commitment. For example, if you are already a good cook, try a new recipe. If you already have a gym membership, try a new gym class or instructor. You’ve done a 5k before? Sign up for a 10k.
The Ultimate Why
Recently, my daughter learned how to ride her bike, and she is THRILLED! I cannot even describe her joy, excitement, and confidence. And while I may not be a child anymore, I want that same joy, excitement, and confidence, too. She is continually learning new things, and she thrives in it. I want to be like her.
