You Are Never Too Old…
Being interested in learning new skills or pursing new interests is an important part of redefining midlife. We must not believe it isn’t possible or we are too old to be a beginner again. We absolutely can still experience the joy and excitement children possess as they move through their lives learning as they go.
When I think about my goal to live at least another 50 years, I know I can’t only have the same set of interests or do the same things I am doing today. That is not living fully. I want to have new experiences, meet new people, and learn new things over my entire life. I want to envision new possibilities and stimulate my brain.
It doesn’t mean I will like or stick with everything I try (ask me about my unsuccessful attempt to learn the ukulele) but the process of trying keeps me engaged in life. It keeps me curious and young at heart. It forces me to present in my life. It can be exhilarating, frustrating, humbling (see below), and daunting…but it is always worthwhile. It is nourishment for my soul.
In my pursuit of new skills, I recently decided to try skate skiing. And I convinced my husband to join me and signed us both up for a lesson.
The headline? What a humbling experience! My arms and legs didn’t know which way to go or when. And my awkward movements looked nothing like the smooth gliding of more experienced skiers. Not to be deterred I went again a few days later to practice and the athlete in me was truly humbled. I was a spaz! My skis kept slipping away, my arms windmilling to maintain my balance, and hills? Forget it! I had to stop every 20 feet to take a rest and I was passed by literally everyone!
And you know what? I had a blast! It was exhilarating to learn something new. I felt alive, incredibly present, and the world felt new and glorious. And who knows, maybe someday I will be a world class skate skier (probably not!).
The Beginner Mindset
Shoshin, the beginner mind, comes from Zen Buddhism. It means "having an attitude of openness, eagerness, and lack of preconceptions when studying a subject, even when studying at an advanced level, just as a beginner in that subject would." You might be already familiar with this concept by a different name, growth mindset.
Neuroplasticity
Unfortunately, most of us grew up with the old saying, “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks?” It turns out it just isn’t true. It may be harder to learn some things, but it is more than possible. Research has proven that adult brains can still grow and change.
This ability is called neuroplasticity, the capacity of neurons and neural networks in the brain to change their connections and behaviour in response to new information, sensory stimulation, development, damage, or dysfunction. “The adult brain is still capable of extraordinary change. It can restore old, lost connections and functions that have not been used in some time, enhance memory, and even enhance overall cognitive skills.”
The Benefits of a Beginner Mindset
It can be easy in midlife to not seek out new experiences or learn something new. We are all stretched thin with existing commitments (family, work, and volunteer) and trying to fit in a little self-care. It can seem easier to operate on autopilot. Who has time to do new things, find the energy to get it sorted out, and fit it into an already full schedule?
But we must! Having a beginner mind helps you see the world as full of possibilities rather than an endless list of to-dos. And it has other benefits as well.
Protects your brain
“Research on brain health tells us that adults who problem solve and learn new skills are engaging in behaviors shown to protect against dementia and memory loss.”
Nurtures creativity
Turns out learning new things is good for our creativity. It changes our perspective and helps us see new solutions and make new connections.
Encourages learning for the sake of learning
Let go of outcomes and appreciate the pure joy involved with learning. As Tom Vanderbilt, author of Beginners: The Joy and Transformative Power of Lifelong Learning, says, “As adults, we instantly put pressure on ourselves with goals. “We feel like we don't have the luxury to engage in learning for learning’s sake.”
Learning as an Adult
In his book, Vanderbilt discusses a couple of factors to keep in mind as you start your beginner’s journey.
Learn from your mistakes
Vary your practice
Share the skill (teach others)
Watch both experts & novices
Other things to keep in mind as you set out to learn something new:
Remember your mind is malleable and can grow. Our brains are constantly adapting and changing, growing new connections in response to environmental stimuli. And the more complex something is to learn, the more your brain will grow.
Keep an open mind. Most likely you are not going to be great when you try something new. But don’t let that stop you.
Be curious (this is my favorite). Don’t make assumptions and question everything...just like a kid!
Don’t be afraid of making mistakes, being bad, or looking weird.
Keep your brain in good working order with a healthy diet, sleep, and exercise (it always comes back to these 3 things!).
Parting Thought
Recent research from the University of Kansas’ Department of Linguistics suggests adults can learn a foreign language as easily as children. I have always wanted to speak Spanish, so maybe I will put this to the test later this year.
Lastly, Happy Birthday to my dad!
See you next week…
