Learning and its effects on wellbeing has been the subject of many studies, especially over the last few decades. Various scenarios, from early childhood learning through to learning among the aged and lifelong learning, have been studied and all the evidence points to the fact that learning is a significant factor in the lives of people who are healthy, happy and who prosper.
Learning creates a sense of achievement and purpose
Nothing beats the satisfaction that comes from setting goals, working towards them and ultimately achieving them. Setting a goal and working towards it generates a sense of purpose, which serves as a huge motivator in life. Achieving what you set out to do while proving your competence is a wonderful boost to self-confidence and self-esteem.
Learning promotes social interaction
Social connection with others is a critical aspect of our wellbeing – we are all social beings. The social benefits of signing up for courses, apprenticeships or mentoring are obvious – you meet new people outside your normal social sphere, or it can provide opportunities to build and strengthen existing relationships and network with people who share your interests and goals.
Learning helps build resilience
Studies done on learning throughout life have shown that people who stay involved in learning have a greater capacity to cope with stress and the challenges of everyday life. Learning breeds feelings of hope, purpose and optimism.
Learning has benefits for career development and employment
Learning and honing skills, widening your field of expertise and developing as a person show employers that you are an adaptable worker, that you can keep up with rapid changes in the work environment and that you can rise to challenges. It makes you more marketable and can boost potential earnings and employability.
Learning and health
Some studies have shown correlations between different levels of education and the prevalence of health issues such as depression and obesity. One study even suggests that accredited learning can safeguard people against developing depression. The message from these studies is that learning and achievement through learning influence people’s behaviours and attitudes, motivating them to make better choices in life and at work.
Sources
www.academia.edu
www.bellevuecollege.edu
www.huffingtonpost.com
www.learningbenefits.net
www.merriam-webster.com
www.nhs.uk
www.niace.org.uk
www.thefreedictionary.com
www.youngminds.org.uk