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Stimulate Your Mind by Learning New Things

by BC Doan in Education, September 20, 2009

Learn something new every day to keep your mind sharp.

Learning can be quite an exciting adventure, but sometimes, as adults with family responsibilities we often forgot.  We are just too busy teaching our children the basic things in life, such as feeding themselves, dressing appropriately, tie their shoes, or behaving, that we stop engaging in learning new things.

However, researchers have found that the act of learning, make us more creative, energetic and enhance our self-esteem.  It doesn’t matter what subject we are taking on, it is the new skill and knowledge that make life more interesting.  

Enroll in Distance Learning

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Take an online class, any class that you fancy taking, such as Photoshop, drawing, or writing.  This is easier to fit into your busy schedule since you can study at your own pace, in your pajama, and no commute.  You do not even have to worry about getting a babysitter.

If you are an early riser or a night owl, you can spend this time with your computer and do your homework.  I love online classes for all the reasons above.

In-Store Classes

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In my area, there are many stores that offer classes for all kinds of things.  Home Depot holds small project classes twice a month on Saturday morning.  For example, the most recent class I saw there was how to build a wooden fence.  JoAnne Fabrics and Michael’s offer jewelry making, knitting, sewing, crochet, quilting, and cross stitch if you are into crafty things.

Explore Continuing Education Classes

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Local college or university often holds both non-degree and degree classes for continuing education.  From web design, video game design, fashion design, to ancient Egyptian symbolism, you will sure find something of interest. 

Keep in mind that community college tuition is more reasonable than university, and both offer financial assistance programs. For more information, call your local admission department.

Adult’s continuing education centers also offer classes for business and personal improvement.  Check your local newspapers or fliers.

Check the Library

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Most libraries have a book club meeting every month for both teens and adults.  If you love to read, this is a great opportunity to join them and be stimulated with the discussions.  Reading material changes from month to month, therefore you are exposed to different genres, subjects, and writing styles. 

Learn on Your Own

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If you are homebound, there are many other ways to sharpen and stimulating your mind.  You can get how-to books, read how-to articles on the internet, watch Do It Yourself project program, or find instructional DVDs on the topics of your liking.  You can learn a variety of different new things such as gardening, knitting, cooking, or basket weaving.

Check out these websites to start:

  • Wonder How To-offers quick and short videos
  • 5 Min-offers how to videos on a wide range of subjects

When you learn new things, you stimulate your mind, excite your soul, and stay young longer.

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User Comments

  1. Mr Ghaz

    On September 20, 2009 at 9:27 am


    Absolutely amazing! a very interesting read and always something to learn.. I think I might read a bit more about it… Excellent work as always, a very enjoyable read! you’re my good teacher sis..Thanks for the tips..:)

  2. Melody Arcamo Lagrimas

    On September 20, 2009 at 9:30 am


    This is very true.

  3. CHAN LEE PENG

    On September 20, 2009 at 9:45 am


    These are all smart tips to stimulate the brain. You’ve composed this piece with smooth flow of expression and brilliant idea, thanks. :-) As usual, you’ve me clicked “liked it”.

  4. Mrs. Heart

    On September 20, 2009 at 10:13 am


    At my age I need extra stimulation. LOL. Great article!

  5. MMV Abad

    On September 20, 2009 at 11:13 am


    Some really smart tips. Personally, I am a home body. I learn a lot of things through reading books… all sorts. Nice article BC :)

  6. Katien

    On September 20, 2009 at 11:14 am


    It is good to learn new things, it keeps the mind lively! Plus you might discover a talent that you never knew you had.

  7. Anne Lyken Garner

    On September 20, 2009 at 12:35 pm


    This is an uplifting and informative article. I agree totally. Learning is great and it doesn’t have to be expensive.

  8. Mary Patricia Bird

    On September 20, 2009 at 1:52 pm


    Very good points and some great ideas.

  9. Liane Schmidt

    On September 20, 2009 at 5:03 pm


    Good stuff – learning something new everyday keeps you young & full of life!

    Blessings.

    Sincerely,

    -Liane Schmidt.

  10. Judy Sheldon

    On September 20, 2009 at 5:16 pm


    Excellent ideas and you are so right. We should never stop learning. We need to embrace the chance of learning something new.

  11. Alexa Gates

    On September 20, 2009 at 8:03 pm


    Great article :) I always forget to sign up at the Micheals or JoAnn Fabrics classes…and when i remember it’s too late!!

  12. valli

    On September 20, 2009 at 9:00 pm


    Good tips to keep the mind sharp.

  13. Ruby Hawk

    On September 21, 2009 at 11:46 pm


    My sister has started taking classes and she loves it. I think about it but that’s all i’ve done so far. I did take an art class a few years ago and it was fun.

  14. Moses Ingram

    On September 23, 2009 at 5:24 pm


    A great article

  15. Yovita Siswati

    On September 26, 2009 at 10:41 am


    Great advise! Thanks for the ideas.

  16. Louie Jerome

    On September 28, 2009 at 5:49 am


    A great way to keep the mind sharp and active!

  17. Geri OHara

    On October 1, 2009 at 8:16 am


    Hi Icy

    Excellent article, when my youngest son was a bit younger I got very little sleep. I took on an O U course while he ‘bounced’ about for half the night. I loved it! I do believe that studying does improve your self esteem and your creativity… especially when you are in a position that you cannot get out and do normal social activites. Lovely article Thanks

  18. Starpisces

    On October 8, 2009 at 11:52 am


    I am also trying to learn new things, I start to write online which I never thought of last time, though I’m not successful yet, but I least I have started! Thanks for this article, I’m a bit motivated now and thought of learning more things but I give myself somemore time.

  19. Debra.

    On October 11, 2009 at 2:40 am


    This is also good for those who want to go back to school but are fearful of doing so because of their age, clothes, or whatever the reason for that matter. You can educate yourself in the privacy of your own home and without having to step into a crowded classroom. Great article, BC!

  20. Sourav

    On October 11, 2009 at 11:22 am


    I agree with you. We should learn everyday. At least we can try!

  21. Chris Stonecipher

    On October 22, 2009 at 7:52 pm


    Hi BC,
    I always enjoy learning new things. Distance learning is how I finished my Bachelor’s degree this past summer. Excellent article my friend.
    Blessings to you,
    Chris

  22. Brian Daniel Stankich

    On October 29, 2009 at 1:06 am


    Knowledge does keep life interesting. Unfortunately, the information age has also stressed us out. We need to continue learning but do so wisely and with self-control. Brian

  23. Amanda

    On November 3, 2009 at 5:02 pm


    just so motivating!

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