“Try to learn something about everything and everything about something.” – Thomas H. Huxley. Here is a list of 10 things you should consider learning today:
PICK UP A NEW LANGUAGE
Learning a new language is probably one of the best things you can do, period. Language is humanity’s most powerful vehicle for communication, self-expression and transmission of identity. It is a window into the world, cultures and traditions. Not only does it let you communicate with people from other countries, but it also greatly improves your memory.
It’s also much easier than it seems. The internet offers several free and easy-to-use apps for learning all kinds of languages, even niche ones.
Give it a try; you won’t regret it. And who knows? You may even become a language geek in the process.
If you’re actually considering acquiring a new language, check out this article about why you should learn a foreign language.
TAKE UP PAINTING
Painting is a deeply relaxing and rewarding activity. If you feel like that’s what you need in your life, consider picking up the brush right away.
If you are one of those who are convinced they have no artistic talent, you’re in for a surprise, big time. Anyone can learn how to paint; all you need is some time and effort- find the passion in yourself.
No one expects you to create a masterpiece on your first try. Simply pick up a painting brush and paint away! It doesn’t matter what you put (or try to put) on the canvas.
Eventually, if you feel like it, you can start taking lessons (and/or watching YouTube tutorials) to learn various painting techniques and become the next Picasso.
MASTER AN INSTRUMENT
Music, much like painting, is a great way to express yourself. It’s also a lot of fun.
One of the best things about learning how to play an instrument is the number of options at your disposal. If you don’t like the sound of a violin, you can try the guitar. If that’s not your thing, you can go for the piano. The possibilities are endless.
If you find an instrument you like, learn the basics, but also try to experiment a little. See how the instrument reacts to what you do. This period of learning is usually the most fun since there is just so much to discover!
TRY OUT PHOTOGRAPHY
Everyone has some experience with taking photos, especially since we have a pocket camera with us at all times. But taking photos is a bit different from photography per se.
Photography is an art. The point is not to simply depict some object or person, it’s to express an idea and/or emotion.
Of course, the best way to learn photography involves taking photos. Try taking photos of random things/landscapes. Then, try to identify why some photos are good and others are not. Also, see if any of your photos inspire you or cause some emotional reaction in you. If so, congratulations, you’ve just created art!
LEARN TO COOK
Eating is one of the most basic things in life, yet many people refuse to learn how to cook for themselves.
There are a bunch of reasons why making your own meals is something worth considering. Homemade food is (usually) more healthy and less expensive than junk food or fast food. Also, you can tailor the recipes to your individual preferences.
When you start learning how to cook, getting things wrong is normal. What’s more, it’s a crucial part of the process. You need to make mistakes before you see major improvements. For example, following a recipe may indeed lead to disaster. Ingredients are never identical, and processes often require flexibility and good judgment on the side of the cook. Check out legendary French chef Jacques Pépin’s quest to reproduce the same “Pears in Caramel Sauce” recipe with medium-ripe pears, ripe pears and hard pears. The lessons are valuable: you can’t simply follow a recipe. You’re in for a journey; the important part is to keep going and keep learning.
START WRITING
Have you ever come up with a genius plot idea for a book or a movie? Have you ever wished you could share that idea with the world? Well, you can.
All you have to do is either pick up a pen and start writing or open up Microsoft Word and start typing. Everyone has one good book in them. Writing could be your path to fame and fortune.
It doesn’t matter what you write about. Go with anything that comes to your mind and see what sticks. If you deem your work worthy, you can post it on some forums and see the reactions. It’s only up from there!
LEARN CHESS
There is a common stereotype about chess: it’s boring. But that couldn’t be further from the truth.
Chess has very straightforward rules, yet no game of chess is the same. This is one of the things that makes the game so exceptional.
What’s more, there is always room for progress in chess; even the best players in the world who have spent their whole lives practicing are easily beaten by chess engines.
And, to top it off, you can easily play chess with people from all around the world using sites like chess.com. Have you heard of the Budapest opening? The French Defense? The King’s Indian attack? Or maybe the Queen’s Gambit? Yes, you’ve guessed correctly; the movie was named after the actual gambit. As a start, check out Eric Rosen’s channel on Youtube. He’s fun, chill and instructive if you’re a beginner. Plus, he’s famous for his signature unbeatable Stafford gambit.
GET INTO DIY
DIY (do it yourself) is a pretty broad concept. It basically refers to anything that you make yourself. This includes clothes, home appliances, all kinds of structures, tools, and much more.
Making things yourself is much more rewarding than simply buying a product from the shop. You will treat the things you create with more respect and care, and you’re bound to save some money in the process.
Of course, unless you are a professional engineer, you are likely to fail many times. That’s okay! It’s something you have to accept if you want to improve.
TRY MEDITATION
Meditation is a very good way to alleviate stress and calm your mind. If you feel like you are putting a lot of stress onto yourself, think about trying meditation.
While many people confuse meditation with intensive thinking, it’s actually the opposite. Meditation is all about ignoring whatever is inside your head and instead focusing on all the sensations you’re experiencing at the present moment. Let go, leave your worries behind, and focus on your breath! Of course, it’s easier said than done. You have to learn how not to think.
Moreover, you can meditate practically anywhere and at any time, so there really is no excuse not to try it out!
LEARN TO CODE
Knowing how to code is one of the most useful and most profitable skills out there. People forget it can also be fun.
Coding is basically a way for humans to talk to computers. It’s used for creating all kinds of software. This may sound difficult, but it really isn’t. All you need to do is learn a coding language and code away!
Okay, maybe it’s not that simple; learning a coding language can be a lengthy process, but if you are willing to invest time and effort, you’ll definitely manage!
