Learning Stuff

A while ago I posted about my decision to quit my job and do something I've wanted to do for years on my post 'I'm a Caddisfly'. Since then I have completed 10 webinar seasons, and five assessments to achieve a distinction in Social Media Marketing and Online Reputation Management. Yes that means I know a bit about how to do this online stuff properly...

...however, it didn't actually tell me how to get more 'time' in which to keep on top of it all.

My goal is to deliver a programme in creative coaching using social media with an arts and crafts theme. I need to be able to use social media properly, not just dipping in here and there, but using data and making sure I post quality content regularly across all the key platforms, such as Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

As is the case, when you really 'want' to learn about something it's so easy. When you have a reason to learn about something you look forward to the lesson or webinar and complete all your homework at the earliest opportunity. It's not rocket science.

I don't mind admitting I was probably hard work as a school pupil.  I went to a Grammar School but would probably have done better at the comp.  I struggled to get past the halfway mark in most subjects, and only in Art and English did I have work regularly pinned on the 'swot' boards. Coincidentally,  the only two subjects I really enjoyed and were totally relevant to the career I wanted  as a graphic designer/illustrator - until an advert for the Royal Navy lured me away to 'see the world'.

Science, maths, history, domestic science and French were all purgatory. Geography and RE merely tolerated.  PE, a welcome distraction - especially since the hockey field was on the same level as the first floor classrooms which meant being able to watch the other girls playing whenever we were up there supposedly learning other stuff.

School was more about friends and discussing what to wear for the disco at the weekend, which lads at the Boys Grammar school were fit and who was going out with who. Lengthy chats about music concerts and records, or whose poster we had on the wall right beside the bed. It wasn't about how much we could learn to help us provide for our families or achieve job satisfaction in our chosen field.

However, many years later when my career turned an unexpected corner and I became a teacher. I suddenly wanted to learn about teaching theories, session planning and psychology.  I completed a total of 15 qualifications in the space of about 6 years including a grand finale BA in Education and Training.

All because it was relevant and I could see the value of studying that particular subject.

Of course most of my teachers would have died laughing at the prospect of me becoming a qualified teacher with a Degree. I was aways the 'could do better' pupil. 'Disappointed at her lack of effort' written regularly on my report. Not exactly a star pupil.

I'm still learning, but only what I need to learn and what interests me. This is a message I want to include in my course. That it's never too late to learn, take on new opportunities and do what gives you enjoyment and satisfaction.

You just have to have courage to start it and the belief to complete it. 

I'm hoping that this day isn't too far away.